C 1i r i s 1 1) h e r C o I ii m b u s 







LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 



Shelf ..,■......'. 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



DEDICATION. 



TO THE REV. JOHN HAMILTON THOM. 



To you, dear friend, who through my ripening youth, 
My listening soul with Life's true Waters fed ; 
Whose learned culture fired ; whose onward tread, 

Firm and inspired beneath the light of truth, 

Woke in me loving reverence ; whose kind heart 
Gave through those years and gives me still a great 
Good gift of friendship : here I dedicate 

This late fruit of a long beloved art. 

More than three years ago to you I brought 
Its earliest opened blossoms, doomed to know 
No further flower or fruitage, but the glow 

Of that kind praise you gave, like sunshine wrought 

On the yet folded buds ; and now to you 
I bring the gathered fruit — my labour done : 
If not unworthy of some praise, to none 

More than yourself the offering is due, 
t M. D. 



PREFACE. 



'T'HE historical facts which form the main narra- 
tive of the following poem, first published in 
1882, were selected from The Life and Voyages of 
Christopher Columbus by Washington Irving, with 
some assistance from Prescott's History of Ferdi- 
nand and Isabella. The considerable assistance 
afforded me by Mr. Irving's sympathetic apprecia- 
tion of the character of Columbus, and of the 
poetic interest and picturesqueness of many points 
in his history, I here most gratefully acknowledge. 

The attitude of the young Genoese as described 
on page 8, was suggested by a photograph of 
Signer Monteverde's beautiful and spirited statue 
" Le prime Isperazione di Cristofero Colombo." 

The duet of the Portuguese sailors was suggested 
by a passage in Travels in Portugal, by John 
Latouche ; the tale of Noah by a legend in Lady 
Jackson's Fair Lusitania. 

I have given the date of Columbus' birth as 
1435 or thereabouts, according to Irving's view 
that he was 70 at the time of his death, and he 
certainly died A.D. 1506. 



CONTENTS. 



Canto I. Boyhood. a.d. 1450 (born circum 

A.D. 1435) I 

II. Early Manhood. 1465 to 1473 • • 34 

III. Marriage, and Porto Santo. 1473 to 

1478 54 

IV. In Portugal. 1478 to 1484 ... 75 
V. At Palos de Mogu^r, Jer^z, and 

Cordova. 1484 to 1487 ... 93 
VI. At Salamanca, Cordova, and Seville. 

1487 TO 1491 116 

VII. At Palos de Mogu^r, Granada, and 

Departure. 1491 to 1492 . . 140 
VIII. His First Voyage. 1492 to 1493 « 164 

IX. Discovery of Hayti— Return to Spain 

— Reception at Barcelona— 1493 . 201 
X. Return to Hayti— Return to Spain — 

Third Voyage. 1493 to 1498 . . 234 
XI. Return to Spain in Chains— Fourth 

Voyage. 1498 to 1504 . , . 265 
XII. Return to Spain, and Death. 1504 to 

1506 

vii 



297 



CHRONICLES 

OF 

CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



CANTO I. 
BOYHOOD. 

C LOW heaves the water by the massive pier, 
The fishers' boats sway slowly to and fro ; 
The terraced city circles round the bay — 
> "noa, surnamed The Proud. 

Arou 1 the port her warehouses are ranged, 
Lofty, full stored ; her arsenal, her towers ; 
Westward the ancient ramparts and the cliffs ; 
San Giorgio's Bank, the Porto Franco east ; 
And the Old Mole protecting half the port. 
Above and yet above, still circle round 
The grim barred windows of her palaces. 



3 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Her churches and dark cypresses ; beyond, 
The hills and barren mountains. 

Autumn shines and glows on all. About the har- 
bour ride 
Tall armed ships, the servants and defence 
Of Genoa's princely commerce ; here and there 
Are lesser craft and boats. In one of these. 
Leaning against the bows, a dreaming boy 
Fixes grey eyes upon the glittering wave ; 
The light reflected flickers on his face. 
White-browed but freckled by the summer sun. 
His ruddy cheeks embrowned, and loose fair curls. 
The ships are swaying slowly up and down, 
The water heaves against the massive Mole : 
He sees no more of water or of ship 
Than one born blind ; he hears no more of all 
The city's many noises, and the loud 
Perpetual bustle on the quays and piers 
Than one born deaf ; his spirit roves afar. 
Picturing future dangers ; glows with hopes 
Of glorious conquests, and great services 
To Christ and the true Faith in heathen lands. 
Of his achievement. In his hand the sword 
Should be Cross- bearing even as his own name 
Signifies bearing Christ ; and he should find 



BOYHOOD. 



In doing those achievements, unknown lands 

And strange adventures, and the wondrous sights 

Of which old mariners tell him thrilling tales, 

Tales that are echoes from the mystic times 

Before the old Greek poets, who maintained 

Incredible things, yet told them with such faith 

And in such music that no human heart 

But must believe them half, and feel the grace 

Lingering on modern lands whose names yet bear 

The fragrance of those fables : as Hesperia, 

Mycaene, Calydon, Thessalia, Tempe, 

Arcadia, Atalantis, Avalon ; 

In later times the wonderful Cathay — 

Land of delightful flowers and wondrous fruits, 

Birds of imperial plumage, precious gums. 

Spices and amber, and mysterious gems ; 

And gentle natives graceful beyond thought, 

Who should receive the Gospel creed with faith 

Sudden, exultant, pure, making earth heaven ! 

But ere this consummation be attained. 

There must be toil and hardships, pain and strife. 

The boy half knows already that to man 

There is no Crown without the foregone Cross ; 

No glory fit for manly heart to seek. 

That shall not cost him heart's blood of the best : 



4 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

But to his pure young thought the glory shines, 
The Crown shines, sure. He can believe in all, 
Danger and difficulty, toil and pain, 
Fear and anxiety, sacrifice and death — 
But not in cowardice, old age, or failure. 
Thus Christopher Columbus longs and dreams, 
In Genoa four hundred years ago. 

Meanwhile the sun went down in perfect calm ; 
The fisherman returned, and springing down 
Upon the thwarts, the boat beneath him rocked. 
Rousing the boy : " I will go with you, Stino." 
And he, a stalwart, grizzled, lean-faced man. 
Pausing a little ere he loosed the rope : 
"Aye, sir, and welcome, but the wind has dropped. 
And I shall have to work her with the oars. 
And to go out afar." " Content," he said. 
And as they stood each laid his oar in place. 
And working steadily they floated far 
Across the sheeted crimson of the bay. 

After an hour they stopped to set their lines ; 
The golden moon came up upon the east 
And Christopher watched, musing. When her orb 
Was floating clear above the sea he spoke : 
" Stino, do you believe the world is round ?" 
" The Saints defend us. Master ! " he exclaimed, 



BOYHOOD. 



Signing the cross upon his brow and breast, 

" It is against religion." " So they say," 

Made answer Christopher, " but at Pavia 

The elder students of the college talk — 

I have heard other things." " Nay, do not heed 

them," 
Said the old man, " for it is dangerous 
To body as to soul to hearken heresies. 
But Marco Polo that you talk about, 
His beautiful stories do one good to hear. 
Tell me one now." " No, Stino, sing to me, 
I have no mind to talk." Then Stino sang. 
But Christopher remained with musing eyes 
And the song passed above him like the wind : 



Over yonder dreary mountains. 
Seeking work in towns unknown. 

Through the lavender and myrtles 
Strides young Cesare alone. 
All alone. 

11. 

Once he turns ; in farthest distance 
Genoa the sea-bom shines. 



6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And by Genoa his sweetheart 
Sits alone beneath the vines. 
All alone. 

III. 

He must leave her there in hardships, 
Waiting for him many years ; 

Here, alone upon the mountain, 

Freely flow his bitter tears. 

All alone. 



Climbing higher up the mountain, 
By the path a man is laid ; 

Lost and weary, sleeping soundly. 
All alone and none to aid. 
All alone. 



Fallen below, his knapsack bursting 
Shews a glittering store of gold ; 

Cesare turns sick and trembling, 
On his brow the sweat stands cold. 
All alone. 



BOYHOOD. 



VI. 

Gasps a prayer then stoops to rouse him, 

Saying in an undertone : 
*' Yes, dear sweetheart, we would rather 

Pass our weary lives alone." 
All alone. 

Late in the autumn night the boat returned 
And reached the town by sunrise. Stino went 
To sell his fish ere yet the pearly tints 
Had faded from their scales. He took his way 
Along the quay and up the dark steep streets, 
Meeting the mules that from the country came 
Shaking their bells and tassels ; on their backs, 
On the red cloth that almost swept the ground. 
Panniers that overflowed with fresh-plucked fruit, 
Salads and garden-food ; and when he reached 
A small side door into Durazzo's Palace, 
Forth came the white-capped cook and bought the 

fish. 
According to their daily custom ; thence 
Returning to the Mole he made a pause 
By a polenta stall to break his fast. 
Stopping again at a small wine-shop door 



8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

For a long draught of well-cooled country wine. 

Then sauntered down the Mole, where Christopher 

Beside the port-light at the farther end 

Had stayed, and sat upon a low stone post 

To which the fishermen make fast their boats ; 

One knee across the other, and his gaze 

Resting upon the distance where the ships 

Come slowly into sight above the edge 

Of the round world. The book upon his knee, 

One finger lying in the half-closed leaves, 

No longer held his spell-bound thoughts enchained, 

Nor were they conscious of the groups at hand 

Of fishermen and sailors playing Moro, 

And jesting noisily ; with gleaming teeth, 

And dark eyes energetic, full of fire ; 

All in red caps, and bound about the waist 

With sashes of bright crimson. To these came 

A wandering minstrel with his ribboned lute, 

Whom they with joyful clamour bade to stay 

And sing them songs of chivalry and love ; 

He sat and sang " The Tomb of Leonore." 



BOYHOOD. 



Conradin the ocean rover 

Proud and glad is coming home, 

In his treasure-laden galley 

Pressing slowly through the foam : 
Sailing to the island shore 
Where the maiden Leonore 

Waits the gay and gallant bridal 
Makes her his for evermore. 

II. 

Conradin the ocean rover 

Leaps down to the pebbled strand, 

Looking towards the turret-window 
For her smile and waving hand : 
Vainly looks, a mournful strain 
From the chapel fills his brain 

With a terrible misgiving 

That his love is turned to pain. 



So it is. His loving maiden 
Lay already in her grave. 
Whilst he planned their gallant bridal 



lo CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Sailing homewards proud and brave. 
There a sculptured tomb he placed, 
With his richest treasures graced, 
Golden tissues, gems and pictures, 
All in seemly order placed. 



There he watched at eve and morning, 
There he watched by night and day 

All his strength went out in weeping, 
All his manhood waned away, 
Till one night when dawn was near 
Grey and cold, he seemed to hear 

Mystic music slowly changing 
Into words distinct and clear. 



Said, ** What dost thou idly weeping, 
Thou who wast so strong and brave ? 

What is all this funeral splendour 
Round about a maiden's grave ? 
Whilst Christ's holy Tomb forlorn 
Stands undecked, the Paynim's scorn ? 

And the Paynim still is master 

In the land where Christ was born ? " 



BOYHOOD. 



VI. 

Conradin rose up at morning, 

Called for food, for wine and bread ; 
Took the treasures, gold and jewels, 

Laying lilies there instead. 

Said, * ' O Love ! Love ever mine, 

In my heart is thy best shrine." 
Summoned then both men and galleys, 

Sailed away for Palestine. 



The song was ended amid hearty bravos. 
And when these ceased, a lad with bare brown legs 
An devil-gleaming eyes, cried out, '* Now, minstrel ! 
Tell of what happened in St. John's, you know, 
When the five cardinals were put to death 
For their conspiracy against the Pope ; 
He paid them well — that 's the right kind of Pope." 
And he grinned hideously. Another said, 
" No, no, the chains we brought from Pisa's gates ! 
I see them often by St. George's door 
Or St. Donato's arches. Tell of those, 
I love to hear of our great victories." 
Then Stino spoke, for Christopher loved music 
And had turned round to listen ; ' ' Let thy next 



12 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Be by the old Monk of the Golden Islands, 

One that is called I think ' The Fatal Voyage.' " 

The other nodding, tuned his lute to sing, 

But Christopher called out, " Now give us more 

Of the Crusades, some tale of noble deeds 

At Acre or Jerusalem itself, 

Dragons and sorceries and Knights and Saints 

And some great lady beautiful." 

"I will," 
Answered the minstrel, " when I can recall 
Such goodly tale to mind, but in meantime 
Here is a ballad full of demonry." 

The Fatal Voyage. 

He sat beside the breaking waves, 

His elbows resting on his knees. 

The clouds tossed wildly overhead, 

The wind hissed through the cypress trees ; 

And winds and waves a cadence kept 

To stories murmuring in his brain 

Of the far-off distant main ; 

Restless thoughts that seldom slept. 

Of islands lying in the seas 

That spread beyond the gates of Hercules. 



BOYHOOD. 



He was a Greek of later days, 
Born and baptised in Christian faith, 
But hearkening to old pagan tales 
Had brought his soul in risk of death. 
He dreamed of finding in the West 
The old Atlantis, island blest. 
Where pearls instead of pebbles lie 
Upon the sands of sifted gold ; 
Where mighty trees obscure the sky. 
And rivers through them flowing bright 
On jasper, beryl, and sardonyx. 
And alabaster gleaming white. 
Are filled all through with rainbow light ; 
Where flowers in strange rich hues unfold ; 
And fruits and spice their odours mix. 
His friends besought him, but in vain ; 
The priests in vain their warning gave, 
The brain-sick fool took ship, and hired 
A scanty crew of stout and brave ; 
A stout and brave but ruflian few 
For no good man would join his crew. 
A fresh, enchanting morning broke, 
Its dewy odours filled the air. 
The rippling sea alluring shone, 
The breeze blew steadily and fair ; 



14 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

They spread their sail and settled to their oars, 
And bore away triumphant from those shores. 
Till night the lessening ship was seen 
To keep her steady onward way ; 
Men marvelled that she had been blessed 
With such a bright propitious day, 
But some had marked a small cloud rise 
Even in those clear propitious skies. 
What time she sailed that cloud arose, 
All day it had pursued her close, 
Then o'er the sunset hung, a speck of dark 
Shewing where lay the now invisible barque. 
Days, weeks, passed by, then tidings came 
That still she held her onward course. 
Driven by a mighty eastern gale 
That day and nightly gathered force. 
Driving her harder hour by hour 
Though tranquil skies did still prevail, 
Leaving all other ships at rest 
But hurrying her into the West, 
Right onward through those terrible wild seas 
That rage below the cliffs of Hercules. 
There spreading suddenly, the cloud 
Burst on her ; thunders crashing loud, 
And rain and hail and flashing fires 



BOYHOOD. 



Rent every sail and spar and shroud, 

Then sank in awful calm away. 

And all the sky was leaden grey, 

And still the terrible east wind 

Stronger and stronger drove behind ; 

Her crew yet living, on the vessel bore, 

No soul returned and no man saw them more. 



A shuddering silence rested on the group, 
A silence broken by a bold young voice : 
" The Greek was right, he was no brain-sick fool." 
And Christopher was standing in their midst. 
Flushed and afire. " "Why, so ought any man 
To follow what he plainly sees is true." 
" True? why what could be falser?" Stino cried, 
" But here is Father Andrew, he will shew 
That Greek was a cursed heretic." 

Then the priest 
Set forth at length how Mother Church alone 
Could guide her children in the ways of knowledge, 
And whoso would not listen to her voice 
Was outcast and condemned, a child of wrath ; 
And she had said, yea, positively affirmed, 
That all the earth was now well-known to man, 



i6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And whoso sought for more transgressed the bounds 

Of lawful knowledge and was heretic. 

" But, father," still urged Christopher, " to him 

These things appeared the truth — the very truth, 

What could he do but follow them and die ? " 

" Hush, hush ! " cried Stino, *' we will hear no 

more. 
Comrades, strike up a fisher's barcarole. 
Minstrel, begin, and I will lead the chorus," 



Barcarole. 



Fishermen, behold the setting, setting sun, 
The soft red clouds spreading slow ; 

The night will be dark, the night will be calm, 
Who to the fishing will go ? 

Chorus. 

Giorgio and Masuccio, Gian and Petruccio, 
Carlo and Vicenzio, Toni and Lucenzio, 
All — all — all — to the fishing go. 



BOYHOOD. 



II. 

Forty boats we start o'er the tranquil, tranquil sea, 

Dip in your oars soft and slow, 
The young moon is set, all the winds are still. 

We to the fishing will go. 

Chorus. 

Giacomo, Santino, Giulio and Stino, 
Beppo, Gasparino, Cecco, Valentino, 
All — all — all — to the fishing go. 

III. 

Now we are far on the black, black silent wave. 

Hang out the fires all aglow ; 
Each flame 's above the stern in its swinging iron 
cup, 

The fishes come flashing from below. 

Chorus. 

Ready now, Masuccio, Giorgio and Petruccio, 
Every man be ready, spear in hand and steady, 
, Strike — strike — strike — a quick and deadly 
blow. 



i8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

IV. 

When the luck is good, in the laden, laden boats 

Homewards we turn glad and gay ; 
We think of our wives, of our little baby boys, 

And sing to Holy Mary on our way. 

Chorus, 

Strike then, Petruccio ! strike then, Masuccio ! 
Strike then, Vicenzio ! Carlo and Lucenzio ! 
All — all — all — strike before we go. 

HYMN. 



Holy Mary, gentle Mary ! 
Ever gracious, ever kind, 
Bless'd be thou who smoothed the waters, 
Bless'd be thou who lulled the wind, 
Holy Mary ! 

Holy Mary, gracious Mary ! 
Thou did'st guide the fishing spear, 
Thou did'st hide the sky in darkness, 
Thou did'st send the fishes near. 
Holy Mary ! 



BOYHOOD. 19 



III. 



Holy Mary, Mary Mother ! 
Bless'd the babe upon thy breast ; 
For his sake thou feed'st our children. 
Love them, Mary make them bless'd. 
Mary Mother ! 

Amen, Amen. 

Whilst yet that high "Amen " hung in the air 
And on the lips of Christopher, he felt 
Some living thing come close about his knees 
And cling around them ; looking down he saw 
The dancing eyes and laughing rosy mouth 
Of his young brother pressed against his side. 
" Here thou art, Christopher ! M^here did'st go last 

night ? 
I wanted thee to tell me pretty tales 
At supper-time." 

"A-fishing, little brother, 
Out with old Stino all night I was." 
"And did'st thou bring me home a little fish? 
Thou promised it." 

" No, no, the little fishes 
Remained in bed all night like little brothers." 



20 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

' ' Then come and buy some watermelon for me, 
White figs and grapes and nuts." So Christopher 
Swung up the merry child upon his shoulders, 
But then the priest, who had but stood aside, 
Drew near with warning and uplifted hand. 
"Young man," he said, " behold the tender love 
This innocent child has for thee, one might say 
Thy hand is on his soul : a solemn trust 
Is thine for good or evil — heed it well. 
I see thou hast religion in thy heart. 
Give him of that thy best, and for his sake, 
Thinking upon his fresh and spotless soul, 
Avoid and quell those lofty swelling thoughts 
Those mischievous amusements of thy mind, 
Keeping thyself to sober, well-known truths, 
That he be not a child of wrath, nor thou." 
But here the boy snatched off his brother's cap, 
And beat his head with it, and pulled his curls. 
And called out loudly in his ringing voice 
To make him go. A merry laugh ran round, 
And Christopher, with quick respectful word 
To Father Andrew, set off at a run. 
And brought Diego to a fruiterer's stand 
That nestled by a palace, in a corner 
Made by a flight of carven marble stairs. 



BOYHOOD. 



Here whilst he dropped him gently to the ground 
Ran up Bartholomew, a little older 
And graver than Diego but like him 
Of black Ligurian eyes and black curled hair. 
He with a like acclaim of loving joy 
Jumped round his brother shouting, who did then 
Buy for them both the fruit they loved the best, 
White figs and nuts and slices thick and cool 
Of green-white purple-seeded watermelon, 
Also of bread, and took of that himself. 
Then as he turned away, the children following 
With laden hands and shortened careful steps, 
A townsman joined him anxious-eyed and told 
Of a fresh quarrel that was breaking out 
Between the Doria and Grimaldi lords 
And like to grow to bloodshed in the streets. 
Thus talking they came back upon the Mole, 
The youth, with knitted brow, sprang lightly up 
Upon the pillar, and the children sat 
Below, singing and playing as they ate. 
Old Stino came, to whom they gave a share. 
And he half-kneeling by them, bade them name 
The various craft that sailed across the bay, 
Or lay at anchor : galley, carrack huge. 
Bird-winged felucca, long straight galliasse ; 



22 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The children knew them all, and named them right. 

Serious discourse the men about them held 

Of those perpetual factions in the town, 

And heavy burdens that they had brought on all. 

" See, see ! " cried Christopher, with eager bound 
On to the pavement, " see the galliasse 
That has come into sight within the hour ! 
It is my kinsman's, surely, Gian Colombo's." 
Then all attentive gazed and made surmise 
For and against, and told each other tales 
Of Gian Colombo's many deeds at sea, 
And how he now returned from a great venture 
To seize on certain ships bound for Byzantium 
Laden with Eastern merchandise for the Greeks, 
For at that time were Greeks and Genoese 
At deadly feud. Meanwhile the galliasse 
Had drawn so near that not a doubt remained, 
But much discourse arose and fierce remark 
How she came back alone and must have failed 
In the proud charge the town had trusted to her. 
The children slept, tumbled upon each other, 
For now full noontide burned above their heads, 
Stino had moved to let his shadow make 
A kindly shelter for them, and had soon, 
Leaning against a pile of spars and cordage. 



BOYHOOD. 



Sunk into sleep himself ; their brother paced 

About the pier or sat upon the edge 

Swinging his feet impatient, in his eyes 

A rising cloud of angered pride and pain. 

The little crowd increased, and one brought news 

That still the streets were quiet. 

Now the ship 
Had drawn so near that faintly could be heard 
The slow dip of her many sweeping oars, 
Followed by the quick flash along each blade. 
For light the airs that stirred the sultry noon. 
At last she was at hand, and veering round 
To enter port beneath the western cliff 
She came in slowly, as a large-winged bird 
Settles down softly by his rock-built nest. 
Some shouts and cheers there were ; and Christopher 
Cried, " Stino, come, to boat ! and board her quick 
Before Colombo sees us ! Slip along 
Behind those galleys and get round his stern 
While he casts anchor." And old Stino rose 
And jumped into his boat ; the boys aroused. 
So eagerly entreated leave to go 
He could not but agree, but with a charge 
To sit as still as if they were at mass. 
So the two children crouched down side by side 



24 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



As grave as little images, in the bows, 

Their brother's kindly frown and frequent nod 

Keeping them patient while the boat was sculled 

And pushed and guided to Colombo's stern. 

The lissome youth climbed up the ropes and chains, 

And entering cautiously he found himself 

At one end of the galleries made to shelter. 

On either side, the rowers at their work. 

None sat beneath them now, the sweeping oars 

Drawn partly in hung idle, all the men 

Busy at other tasks. Forward he saw 

The Admiral, preparing to depart ; 

A broad-built handsome man whose deep-set eyes 

Of kindling grey had something in their flash 

Like Christopher's, but his red hair was short. 

And all his bearing was more harsh and rough. 

Then Christopher rejoicing ran along 

The narrow gangway, springing light of foot - 

Over the cannon chained down to the deck, 

And standing by the Admiral, waved his cap 

And hailed him cheerily ; but he replied 

With hasty nod and gesture, for his mind 

Went after other matters of grave need. 

Rapt in a thrill of happiness, the youth 
Stood awhile gazing, went amongst the men, 



BOYHOOD. 



Questioned and talked, and lent a helping hand, 

Scarcely remembering how the hours went by ; 

Then hastening to the stern, saw how the boys 

Scrambled about with wonted noise and glee. 

But Stino met him with an anxious face, 

And told of tidings that a fierce affray 

Was raging in the streets around their home, 

A very wild encounter, and he feared 

The boys might come to harm with him alone. 

Then Christopher came swinging down in haste. 

And calling, as he dropped into the boat, 

* ' Then need indeed to get them home at once ! 

Ho, comrades ! who will help ? Stino with one 

Will bear the children if we meet with foes, 

I and another keep or force a way." 

A ready answer came, two stalwart sailors 

Joined Christopher and Stino, and to shore 

They brought the boat again. Safe way they made 

With little hindrance through the narrow streets, 

Taking a circuit clear of blows and blood. 

The frightened boys, one on his brother's back 

The other on a friend's, were kindly borne 

Up the steep streets upon the eastern slope. 

Once and again they passed a palace-gate, 

And looking in beheld the central court 



26 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Beneath whose graceful arches, gay and sweet 
Stood in their carven tubs small trees and flowers, 
And in whose midst the murmuring fountains 

played — 
Now filled with armed men, servant and lord, 
And clanging noise of armour and defence. 

Up the steep streets they toiled, and near the 

walls 
They reached a plain white dwelling in the shade 
Of tall acacias, by an olive-ground ; 
This was Colombo the wool-comber's house. 
They climbed the narrow stair and at the head. 
Within a chamber door, the father stood, 
Haggard and pale. His visage lighted up 
"When he beheld the boys, for in the room 
Lay in her mother's arms their little girl 
Francesca, faint with terror, on her cheek 
A scar yet bleeding ; for Domenico, 
When first he heard the fray and hurried out. 
Had found his daughter driven to the wall 
By the fierce combatants, and in her fears 
And being hurt a little, she had swooned 
Just as her father reached her. Her he had borne 
In safety home, and had in anguish turned 
To seek the younger children. 



BOYHOOD. 27 



By this time 
Francesca had revived, and seeing there 
All the kind faces of her home, she smiled 
And raised herself and kissed her mother's cheek, 
And pulled her father's beard, and laughed again. 
Then Christopher brought out a box he had 
Of shells and boyish hoards of long ago. 
And placed her underneath the shaded window 
Upon the foot-beam of her mother's loom, 
A vine-branch swinging in above her head. 
The mother moved about the large bare room, 
And having done all needful for her girl. 
Prepared a meal of soup and fish and bread, 
Salad well dressed with vinegar and oil. 
Garlic and cheese, and purple Nervi wine. 
And pressed her son and his good friends to eat. 
But Christopher would not, and set himself 
To go back with his comrades to the port. 
Then did his mother, with her large black eyes, 
Larger and blacker through the thronging tears. 
Pray him to stay in safety, but he laughed 
And went out with his quick unfearing tread. 

When with his comrades he came forth again 
Beneath the acacias standing by the door, 
Whence they could see all Genoa and the bay, 



28 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

He stood a little gazing round the heavens, 

South-west he turned, and sudden pointing cried, 

" Look how the clouds are spreading up the sky ! 

And how the sea grows greyer and more grey, 

Darker and yet more dark, and flecked with white ! 

Hark ! the dull sound that murmurs from afar ! 

The fierce Libeccio comes ! Fearful will be 

The sea to-night, and terrible for all 

Who neither reach their port nor clear the coast. 

Quick ! let us hasten down and go to help." 

So they went down their quickest, but the wind 

Was on the bay before them, driving fast 

One wave behind another, tearing up 

The solid waters into spray and dust 

And filling the wide heavens with their roar. 

The young man and his comrades took their boats 

And went with eager hearts to help and save. 

When morning came again serene and bright, 

The sullen heaving of the waves alone 

Was witness to the terrors overpast. 

Before his house-door Domenic was set. 
He and his Admiral cousin in the shade, 
A morning meal between them, and his wife 
Attending on them. From the house there ran 
A wooden bridge or balcony that led 



BOYHOOD. 



Into the room where Domenic and his men 
Worked at their trade ; up to the hand-rail grew 
And hung about it, twisted stems and leaves 
Of trailing pumpkin ; there, amidst the leaves, 
The golden vase-shaped flowers and golden fruit, 
Looked out the little face, bent on her arms, 
Of young Francesca watching those below. 
Colombo made enquiry for the lad, 
And then Susanna, standing by her spouse 
And resting one hand on his shoulder, told 
How he had come long after midnight home, 
Entirely wearied, having gone to sea 
With comrades daring as himself, and saved 
Three men from drowning off a shattered wreck. 
Now he was laid in bed, as fast asleep 
As ever she had seen him when a babe. 

" The lad should go to sea," Colombo said. 
Resting his elbow on the table there. 
" I fear so," answered Domenic. " I wished, 
I dearly wished to make a scholar of him. 
He did well at Pavia, very well. 
And our confessor here commends him much 
For learning past his years." Then eagerly 
Susanna interrupted : " Aye indeed, 
He can make poetry ; my little girl 



30 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Francesca there, found something he had writ 
Which looks like verses — but I cannot read. 
You, Sir, you read them to me ! " 

*' I indeed ? 
Well, well I will, but Saints above ! my pipe 
Will make rough music of them." Then came forth 
In loud sea-accents this : 

Eagle, eagle, rising on thy steady pinions 
Farther, ever farther in the realms of light ! 

Give me of thy freedom, give me of thy swiftness, 
Give me of thy vigour and thy piercing sight ! 

I would never linger, even on these mountains 
Guarding in her freedom Genoa proud and bright ; 

I would float and travel east and west and south- 
wards, 
Following every coast-line in my hovering flight ; 

I would trace the rivers to their secret sources ; 
I would judge the mountains in their breadth and 
height ; 

I would scan the waters of the inland basins ; 
And the great volcanoes roaring in their might ; 



BOYHOOD. 



I would cross all countries ; I would pass the bound'- 

ries 
Where the pleasant daylight stops in endless night ; 

I would search the ocean and find out the circles 
Where the sea is ended, and learn the secret right. 

Then how proud and happy I should tell these 

wonders 
To my little brothers listening in delight ! 

When he had done he smiled a crooked smile 
And rose up from his seat, beating one fist 
Into his open hand : " The boy 's a fool, 
Brain-sick, quite brain-sick, he will do no good 
Out of a convent. This is utter raving. 
There 's not a word of sense or meaning in it." 
Then said Susanna with the wistful eyes : 
" O sir, the other paper that we found 
Perhaps might please you better, it may be 
That he was older when he wrote it. See, 
Will you not read it, cousin ?" And she looked 
So gently at him, holding out the sheet, 
That with a grim grimace he took it from her 
But did not seat himself, and read again : 



32 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



Here on Pavia's galleried bridge, 

Across the plains I gaze, 
"Where silent stands the ripening com 

Beneath the noon-day blaze : 
Sadly I think of those wild shores 

Where passed my childish days. 
Genova ! Genova ! 



The colleges and level streets 
Are fine and grand to see ; 

The river swirling on its course 
Has something fresh and free 

But I long for my hilly city 
That stands beside the sea. 
Genova ! Genova ! 



The bare, bare hills, the wide, wide sea. 
The boats, the fishermen bold ; 

The ships coming in with their treasures 
Of Indian wealth untold ; 



BOYHOOD. 



The midnight storms and the wild free life, 
I love as I loved of old. 

Geneva ! Genova ! 

"Ah, well," he said, " that is a little wiser ; 
He says he better loves the rough sea life 
Than his fine college doings at Pavia." 
" Just so," said Domenic, " the boy's whole heart 
Is set upon the sea, and brave he is, 
And ready-handed, and a right good boy. 
You know it, Gian Colombo." 

" Yes, I do. 
I love the lad for all he is too dreamy 
And a bit monkish. He shall go with me 
Next time I sail, a week or two's salt water 
Will wash the nonsense out. He 's a fine lad, 
And I can do him good, teach him my calling 
And raise him in the world. I love the boy, 
I would my wild young nephew were more like 

him ! " 
And so to Christopher, whilst he lay asleep, 
There came fulfilment of his dearest wish. 



CANTO II. 

EARLY MANHOOD. 

O LOW, soft and slow, the April night recedes 

Above the proud old city, Genoa, 
Slowly recedes and slowly dawn appears. 
Before his father's door, at the stair-head. 
Resting his hands on the carved wooden rail, 
Stands Christopher Columbus, a strong man. 
Weighted with thirty years. Leaving the house 
For early mass, the peaceful perfect dawn 
Had settled on his soul and stayed his feet, 
And he leaned there attentive. Then the dreams 
Of his past boyhood, slowly rising up 
And filling all his memory with the light 
Of their enchantment, mastered him again. 

" Lo, now ! how many years my busy life 
Has held me in restraint, body and soul ! 
Travail and war and cares for those I love 
And deaths and sorrow. Ever, through it all, 
34 



EA RL Y MA NHOOD. 



I heard from time to time the inner voice 

That called to me, ' Forget not thy great dream ! ' 

And ever in the pauses of my toils, 

Pacing the deck at midnight or as now 

Watching the re-creation of the world, 

A power from some unseen intelligence, 

A power from God himself seems to await 

To give me revelations. Day is coming ! 

And the loud singing of the nightingales, 

Like draughts of wine, like draughts of new-pressed 

wine. 
Fires every vein with courage. Oh, behold 
The light that reddens on those fretted clouds 
That drop a flush upon the shimmering sea ; 
That strikes with gold Capo dell' Mele's head 
And rests afar on mist-like Corsica ! 
Behold and ask whence comes it, for the sun 
Not yet has risen from that dark abyss 
Where night by night he takes from west to east 
His deep mysterious way ; below all seas, 
Below all lands, below all natural powers. 
Can it be so ? Too inharmonious 
And harsh a thing it seems ! That he — 
Who half the hours his calm procession makes 
Through a pure ether, far above all soil, 



36 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

All rough confusion — nightly should descend 
To something coarse, chaotic, turbulent, 
Is past all possibility or belief. 
Plainly must he, being the same, maintain 
By day and night the same essential life 
Here or invisible, as he remains 
Above the transitory storms of day. 
However dark, however turbulent. 
The same all godlike. Sure the arching course 
We see him take must circle round complete : 
Hence does the morn strike first upon the sky, 
Then on the mountain-tops, the highest first, 
And lower slowly to the level sea. 
The sun is fully risen ! Like to him 
The coming ships rise gradual into sight 
And gradual sink like him : surely their course 
Arching like his, would circle round complete 
If man had power to follow, on and on 
Across those western seas Atlantic named. 
And find no sudden edge nor vague Beyond, 
But spheral smoothness, going till the land, 
The eastern borders of these continents. 
The farthest shores of Asia, were attained ! 
My God ! my God ! sustain my trembling soul, 
I cannot see thy will nor my own thought, 



EA RL V MA NHOOD. 37 

But nature shudders to her inmost veins 
Beneath a touch divine. Amen, so be it, 
When and whatever thy great will may be." 

The church-bells rang to matins, and he went 
With eyes still rapt and calm unconscious steps 
Down to St. Matthew's Church, the Dorias' own, 
For much he loved the name of Doria, 
And did not heed a minstrel whom he met, 
Haggard and stained, who paused and sharply gazed 
Turning to watch him as he walked along. 
He reached the church by Martin Doria founded : 
Built up of marble, banded black and white 
From the first courses to the sculptured eaves, 
According to the privilege bestowed 
Upon the Dorias and three other lords ; 
On the white bands, above the entrance door, 
There stood, in carven words, the history 
Of actions by that grand heroic race. 
He entered in amidst the crowd to pray. 

The Minstrel took his way as once before 
Down to the Mole, where as before he found 
Old Stino, sitting barehead in the sun, 
His grizzled locks now thin and silver-white, 
His old skin browner, his keen eyes more dim. 



38 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

By him the Minstrel stood and after speech 

Of mutual recognition and salute, 

Related how, some fourteen years ago 

Travelling beyond Ravenna down the coast, 

He had been taken prisoner on the sea 

By Grecian pirates, and detained till now, 

When he had made a hard escape, and come 

Shattered and poor back to his native land. 

Then said to Stino : ** Who is he I passed 

Close to St. Matthew's Church? A man of mark. 

Noble and grave in bearing, tall and strong. 

But with the dreamy and yet fiery eyes, 

The ruddy cheek, white brow, and steady mouth. 

Authoritative, sweet, that I remember 

One morning on this quay when last we met ; 

A youth who dared to argue with a priest 

And yet was neither scoffer nor profane. 

Can this be he?" 

" Aye, aye, sir, it is he. 
Grey -haired and yet but thirty years of age. 
He went, no doubt, to early mass, was never 
A better Catholic nor more religious, 
But still, as ever, after something new. 
Wearing his heart with notions of research 
And ever more to learn, yet all the while 



£A RL V MA NHOOD. 39 

He knows so much they say that he might be 

A doctor at some college." " Yet he looks," 

Replied the other, " like a man to act, 

Fit for command and danger ? " " So he is," 

Said Stino, ** and 't is just that makes me wonder 

Where he gets all his learning, for his life 

Is ever full of business on the sea, 

Trouble and fighting. He is now come back 

From the great expedition with Duke John, 

John of Calabria, for his father Rene. 

' * About four years ago the Duke set out 
To claim the crown of Naples for his father, 
And our Republic gave them liberal aid. 
Money and ships, our best and bravest men. 
The thing has failed, you know, but he was there, 
Our Christopher, the bravest and the best, 
And I was with him, in his ship I went. 
And many a bold triumphant thing we did. 
One time we kept the Bay of Naples clear 
From Ischia to Capri and all round, 
With but four galleys, at that time Duke John 
Being driven to shelter in the Isle of Ischia. 
Last we were ordered right away from Tunis, 
To cut out a great galley lying there. 
With our one ship. But when we neared San Pedro, 



40 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

That island on Sardinia's south-west coast, 
We heard for certain two ships and a carrack 
Were with our prey. So then our crew lost 

heart, 
Fairly took fright, and after much ado 
Our captain, Christopher, you know, gave way 
And turned our head due north, setting all sail 
To make Marseilles, and ask another ship — , 
And help in men. By this time it was dark ; 
All night we tacked and tacked, and still it seemed 
Our course was unaccountable, the stars 
Shone in unlikely quarters, and I watched 
Our captain's face, for there was something there 
I could not fathom, but at last I spoke. 
* Captain,' I said, ' 't is strange to see old Sirius 
Set there upon our right, we sailing north ? ' 
He looked up at the sail and whistled low, 
' True, Stino, true,' he said, 'but we sail right.' 
I asked no more but turned it in my mind. 
And when dawn came I tell you there we were 
Close upon Tunis harbour, having turned 
The point of Carthagena in the night. 
How his eyes gleamed when I saluted him ! 
How the men swore ! But there was no help then 
But fight it out. And so we did." 



EA RL Y MA NHOOD. 



" Stay, stay," 
The Minstrel said, " how did he cheat the crew ? " 
' ' Cheat ! cheat ! " swore Stino, " No, he did but turn 
The compass a few points to make it seem 
That we went north when we were going south, 
To make them do their duty. And they did. 
They answered his demand, right well he knew 
That he could trust them once before the foe. 

'* But they tell tales about him, evil tales, 
Tales that are true of Gian Colombo's nephew, 
A braggart, rash, not like our Christopher. 
But people, knowing he has often sailed 
With his old kinsman, take him for the nephew. 
I am old, I am getting very old ; 
I have seen many men, but never one 
To come near Christopher. He is stern, I know. 
When stern he must be, and his blood is hot 
And quick by nature, but his choleric spirits 
He keeps well under, and is just and kind. 
Courteous to all men, and his loving heart 
Soft as a woman's. Well his father knows 
And his two brothers, what a loving heart 
Is his, and helpful hand. May the Saints bless him 

ever ! 
Bless him, and take him in his time to glory ! " 



42 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

About this spring Columbus set his mind 
To go to Portugal. His old desires 
Drew him like love of country to the land 
Which was at that time as the heart and brain 
Of great adventures and a large research ; 
Upon whose soil Prince Henry's College stood, 
Where were taught all things then to science known 
Of the starred heavens and outlines of the world, 
Of naval arts and management of ships ; 
The country of that Prince whose noble zeal 
Had won for Portugal new isles and shores. 
And made her great in maritime renown ; 
The country of that Prince whose name was grown 
To Christopher's imagination dear 
As poet's hero to a dreaming boy. 
But between him and his desire there lay 
Pledges of service on the inland seas, 
In commerce and in war — and time went by. 

Thus after many years he came to Lisbon, 
Lisbon that sits upon her many hills, 
The spreading river waters at her feet. 
There dwelt he, sometimes sailing ; and on shore 
Made for his living maps and seamen's charts. 
When first he came to Lisbon he set up 
His lodging in a house whereof he knew. 



EA RL Y MA NHOOD. 



Where dwelt an old Italian named Raimondo, 
A barber's shop that looked upon a space 
'Midst the old Moorish houses standing round, 
Wheie ancient cork-trees grew, of rugged bark 
And jagged rustling leaves, amid whose shade 
A little Moorish fountain leaped and fell ; 
Thence by a round-arched gateway went a street 
Narrow and steep to All-Saints' church* and con- 
vent. 
About the fountain came, towards close of day, 
The poorer neighbours, and to Raimond's door 
Traders of substance, sailors from afar. 
And ofttimes learned men — to lounge and talk . 
Sebastian came, an old sea-captain he, 
Who seeing there a stranger, Christopher, 
Saluted him with kindest courtesy, 
According to his country's wont, and fell 
Into discourse. Then, noting the great zeal 
Columbus had for travel and for all 
Concerning navigation, met in full 
His pressing questions ; thus absorbed they turned 
From Raimond's door and slowly crossed the Place 
Into the round-arched gateway. Up the street 
They passed, and at a poor man's door there stood 
A sister from the Nunnery above 



44 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And a shawled lady just within the door, 

The lady's shawl caught by the latch, dropped 

down 
A little from her face, just as she smiled 
Upon the poor man's babe, and laid her hand 
Caressing on its head. Her face was sweet 
With a grave sweetness not of early youth ; 
Arched delicate features, fine black level brows, 
Soft raven hair, a colourless clear cheek, 
Columbus glancing saw ; having passed on 
He asked the other who the lady was. 
He answered: " She is Palestrello's daughter, 
Bartholomew Mofiis de Palestrello, 
A gentleman of Italy, who wed 
A lady of this place, and by Prince Henry 
Was sent to the Madeira Isles to found 
A colony in Porto Santo. There 
For many years he governed for us well. 
And is but lately dead. His wife has gone 
Out to the island to collect his goods, 
And ere long will come back ; Donna Felipa, 
The daughter, is a boarder in the convent 
Where half her youth was passed. Look, through 

the trees 
Beyond the churchyard you may see the wall 



EARLY MANHOOD. 



Which bounds the convent garden." They walked 

on 
Beneath the plane-trees and the garden wall, 
And sitting in a field of citron-trees 
Now in their autumn bearing of green fruit, 
And looking down on Lisbon and the bay 
Which spreading Tagus makes, and on the hills 
Distant and lovely, turned to that discourse 
They held before. 

Then did Sebastian tell 
Of good Prince Henry, uncle to the King, 
And now an aged man. " Sir, I have served 
In all the expeditions he has sent 
Down Afric's savage shores and their wild seas. 
I was with those who passed Cape Bojador, 
Coasted down Senegal to Cape de Verd, 
Traded with Guinea's treasure-bearing shores, 
And sailed out to the Isles which lie opposed 
To Cape de Verd. Long ere that time we went 
To the far-off Azores ; when first I saw 
The magic needle rule the roughest crew 
And guide the great ships on the pathless sea. 
Yes ! I was there, forgive me if I boast, 
But my heart swells within me. Those were grand 
And perilous adventures ! glorious — 



46 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

But of great danger. And the Prince himself ! 
I served him, sir, a good and noble man, 
And I was one of those he trusted most. 
So let me, senhor, be a little proud ! " 

Columbus stretched his hand in ready clasp : 
*' Sir, you have reason to be greatly proud. 
But pray tell me further, vi^hat is true 
Of those hot regions deadly, and those seas 
Men hold for demon-haunted ? " 

' ' Their own fears 
Are all the demons there and half the dangers. 
The seas that beat upon all western coasts 
Come driving in from that vast wilderness 
Of untracked waters stretching to the west, 
None knows how far ; rolling beneath such winds 
As well may seem to uninstructed minds 
The judgments of a God in wrath, or else, 
The horrible sport of fiends without remorse. 
The hugeness of those waves, the turbulence 
Of that great ocean, are beyond your thought 
Who have lived only on your tideless sea, 
Your Mediterranean plain. But man has power 
To rule all lower creatures, we have sailed 
Leagues upon leagues across those dreadful seas 
Time after time, and now the fear is gone. 



EARLY MANHOOD. 



But, sir, the terror of the burning zone. 

Where it was thought the sun's perpetual heat 

Glowed with such ever-growing potency 

Age after age from old creation's dawn. 

That now the fathomless waters tossed and 

smoked. 
Boiling gigantic from their very depths, 
A barrier impassable — this, sir, 
I own I did believe, but also this 
Is all an idle fable. We have proved 
No utter heat destructive even there, 
Where at some certain seasons of the year, 
The solar course goes in an upright arch 
From east to west, and at noonday the sun 
Stands overhead, and looking to the ground 
Scarce can you see your shadow, lying closed 
In a small circle round about your feet." 

By this had night set in. The moon had risen. 
Not quite at full, and made amidst the clouds 
A silvery softness circled round with brown ; 
Long feathery streaks stretched white and wild 

o'er head, 
Lovely and ominous. The captain rose. 
" See," said he, " how the sky foretells the wind ; 
Soon will the full moon's strongest influence. 



48 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBVS. 

Joined with the time of equal nights and days, 
Bring up the highest tides against our shores. 
Then, westerly gales prevailing, as even now 
That sky foretells, the storms upon the coast 
Will bring to mind the Flood of olden time. 
So terrible and grand the sight they make, 
" And also, " he said low, " so much they bring 
Of grief and ruined lives ! Good-night, Sir Stranger, 
If you should care to hear yet further tales 
Of what my voyages have taught and proved, 
Come to me at my dwelling." 

" Thanks, good sir. 
But tell me one thing more, you have your charts, 
On which the lines are set of these new countries ? " 

" Aye, but my charts have such hard service 
seen 
They scarcely hold a shape intelligible. 
But they are at your service." 

" Thanks again ; 
I will not fail to come, and I shall beg 
Leave to draw out those charts again for you ; 
It is a work in which I have good skill." 

They parted then. Captain Sebastian trod 
Pond'rous and slow down a steep alley home ; 
Columbus with bent head paced thoughtful back. 



EA RL V MA NHOOD. 



In his mind saying, " I must see that ocean 
Tossed by its mighty, overmastering storms. 
There lies the riddle of my life, vague, dark, 
Baffling all present knowledge, without clue." 
Here looking up he saw the convent walls 
Looming above him, and his thoughts went on : 
" Impenetrable stands this lowering pile, 
But deep within its massive marble hides 
As fair a woman's face as ever shone. 
Seeming entirely unattainable, 
But yet a bride for whoso has the heart 
And the strong will to win her. Even so 
Upon that ocean lies something that calls me, 
Great and incomprehensible and vague. 
But holding in its seeming lifeless mass 
A living hope, a bright reality." 

On the next morning Christopher set forth 
Upon his way through Cintra to the coast, 
That from the cliffs beside the Rock of Lisbon 
He might behold the autumn spring-tide rise, 
Reaching its height at midnight. As he went 
The stormy weather ever growing worse 
Fulfilled the presages of moon and clouds. 
He passed through Cintra's fragrant flowery vales 
And rocks pine-crested, and he crossed the hills 



so CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And reached the Roca as the sun went down 

Just when the tide was lowest. Sandy shores 

Lay in long reaches by the pebbled banks 

And in the hidden corners of the cliffs ; 

The great black waves successive, rolling up, 

Broke with a roar upon the lower beach 

And sent their white surf hissing up the coves 

Sullen and swift, devouring all the sands, 

And by the sands devoured. The winds so raged 

That even Christopher's accustomed feet 

Could not maintain their hold, and he knelt 

down 
Upon the grass for safety, so to watch 
That range of mighty billows coming on. 
And arching over till their foamy crests 
Crashed and spread out upon the curves below. 
Each after each long-reaching, stern they rolled 
From where against the red horizon heaved 
A long irregular line beneath the sun ; 
The voice of many waters in uproar 
Filled all the sense of hearing with their noise ; 
The hurricane of wind thundered above ; 
The gloomy rack drove swiftly overhead. 

He watched, and to his mind there came the 

words : 



EA RL Y MA NHOOD. 



" ' In the beginning God made heaven and earth,' 
Also the waters of the whole great sea. 
He rules that sea he made, those terrible waves 
Which long and high roll in, each after each, 
In cadence order regular, as if held 
In iron reins by some unswerving hand, 
Powerless in all their power, to disobey. 
The red path on the waters grow more bright 
As the sun sinks below them. Now he goes 
To bear his warmth and glory to the lands 
Whence come these raging billows ; nothing lies 
Between me and those lands but this great sea, 
The highway of God's glory. Shall that sun 
My fellow-creature, take his light and heat. 
His large beneficence of life and good 
To those poor pagan people, and not Christ 
Bear of his everlasting life and heat 
For the eternal saving of their souls ? 
I hear thy message, Lord, across the sea 
Thou sendest all this wilderness of waves 
Crossed by red glory from the west, to speak, 
And all this wilderness of waves shall turn 
To bear thy messenger, who shall bear thee 
As thy good servant erst. Saint Christopher, 
Bore thee a child, across the rising stream. 



52 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

But wilt thou be to me, as then to him, 

A heavy burden ? Wilt thou weigh on me, 

As upon him, a pagan unbaptised ? 

Not so, Lord Christ ! I own thy name and power, 

And call myself thy servant and thy son, 

Signed with the water and the chrism for thee. 

When shall I go to do this holy work ? 

When to take up my Cross and follow thee ? 

And stay my yearning spirit ? In thy time, 

In thy good time, O Lord ! " 

Whilst yet he stayed 
The sun went down, the darkened billows rose 
Higher and higher as the tide came in ; 
The sands were swallowed up, the beaten rocks 
Shook, and dashed up the flood in columned 

spray ; 
And ever higher swelling came the sea. 
Hanging above the cliffs and breaking down 
In cold salt floods destructive on their heads. 
Columbus in a rocky shelter leaned, 
His whole soul rapt amid the ceaseless roar 
That filled the darkness; nothing seen but when 
The moon through riven clouds one moment shed 
Her white cold glory on the tumult fierce. 
Again his soul sent up his solemn vow : 



EA RL V MA NHOOD. 



" I see these terrors, Christ, and those worse foes, 

The ignorance and sinfuhiess of men, 

The pride of kings and priests ; but neither powers, 

Nor principalities, nor sword, nor fire. 

Shall turn me back from following thy voice 

Into the work appointed. Lord, Amen." 



CANTO III. 

MARRIAGE, AND PORTO SANTO. 

A TRANQUIL life Columbus led on shore, 

Working for bread, the while the autumn 
waned 
Into the gentle winter of the land. 
Ever religious, at the convent-church 
Of All-Saints he was regular in prayer, 
Matins and vespers and at Sunday mass. 
There often when, with thoughts preoccupied 
And heeding little what the service said, 
There came the burst of music in response, 
Or flowing anthem, one sweet woman's voice 
Grew separate to his ear from all the rest 
And drew his mind along with it to Heaven, 
But working on him so insensibly 
He never thought to wonder who thus sang. 
He studied much, and made with learned men 
Frequent exchange of letters, notably 

54 



MA RRIA GE, A ND POR TO SA NTO. 55 

With that renowned and learned Florentine, 
Paul Toscanelli ; and the new-born art 
Of making one book into many books, 
Which gives all men the freedom of the world 
Of intellect and knowledge, gave to him 
Some well-filled, well-loved volumes, and of these 
That which best served and most delighted him 
Was the collection of research and travel 
Made by the prelate Pedro of Aliaco, 
Cambrai's archbishop, aided by his friend, 
The learned Gerson, Little did he seek 
At that time fellowship of many men ; 
Captain Sebastian was his hearty friend 
And oft companion, and the quiet months 
Enriched his life with scarcely noted gifts, 
Till the mid-winter came with fast and feast. 

Upon the morning before Christmas Day 
Sebastian prayed him for his company, 
To meet and help Donna Felipa's mother, 
Who was to land that day on her return 
From Porto Santo home; but Christopher, 
Being pressed by work, unwillingly refused. 
So it fell out that late on Christmas Eve 
He went up to the chapel to behold 
The vigil kept of the Nativity 



56 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And hear the midnight mass. The church was 

bright, 
And thronged with worshippers ; near the full blaze 
Of the high altar candles was Sebastian, 
Beside him a strange lady whom Columbus 
Knew for the widowed matron, and by her 
Stood the once-seen Felipa, neither tall 
Nor low of stature, all her bearing full 
Of loving warmth and thoughtful self-conlrol. 
Her head held straight, her dark eyes raised, her lips 
Parted to sing. Then he knew suddenly 
Hers was the voice which he was wont to call 
His consolation, inly likening it 
To the warm summer moonlight, or the glow 
Of morning on the mountains ; and he went 
And stood beside her, and their voices rose 
In harmony together up to Heaven. 

The old year closed, and when it was late spring 
Bartholomew Columbus came to Lisbon, 
At Christopher's request, to seek employ 
Amongst Prince Henry's captains on the sea. 
There, sitting in his brother's room at night. 
After all questions of the Genoa home 
Were asked and answered, and his brother wrote 
Word to their father, read he by the lamp 



MA RRIA GE, A ND FOR TO SA NTO. sj 

Close to the open window. In the dark 
Of the old garden twinkling fire-flies danced, 
And scents of tuberose and of heliotrope 
Came in on the warm air. The book he read 
Was a large printed volume parchment bound, 
The work of Pedro the Archbishop, marked 
Along its borders with his brother's notes 
In his close, delicate writing ; as he read. 
He found amongst its pages a loose sheet 
Covered with verses in the same fine hand, 
Which ran as follows : 



Love me. Lady of All Saints, 
Love me, Felipa mine ! 

Love me by sunrise and starlight 
All my spirit is thine, 
Love me, love me, Felipa ! 

II. 

When the olives are setting, 
Love me, Felipa mine ! 

When the olives have blackened ; 
All my spirit is thine. 
Love me, love me, Felipa ! 



58 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

III. 

When the orange trees blossom, 
Love me, Felipa mine ! 

When their full globes hang golden ; 
All my spirit is thine. 
Love me, love me, Felipa ! 

IV. 

When the violets by thousands — 
Love me, Felipa mine ! 

Under the thickets make Heaven ; 
All my spirit is thine, 
Love me, love me, Felipa ! 

V. 

When the myrtles are flowering, 
Love me, Felipa mine ! 

Bridal myrtles and roses ; 
All my spirit is thine, 
Love me, love me, Felipa ! 



All the best gifts of Heaven, my dearly-loved. 
We take in blissful silence, for no speech 
Can to an adequate presentment reach 



MARRIAGE, AND PORTO SANTO. 59 

Of the deep things whereby the soul is moved : 
Therefore, blessed maid, this precious heart of thine 

Kneeling I take in my two hands, and bow 

My face above it with a silent vow 
To hold it, as from God, yet wholly mine ; 
And when we stand before Him that dread Day 

When every life shall be unveiled and known. 

May I have kept more surely than my own 
Thy heart in peace, and safety round thy way. 
Blest ! Purest ! Worthiest ! Saint by All Saints 

given 
To show to men a nearer view of Heaven. 

Here did Bartholomew look up, and find 
That Christopher was watching, with a light 
Of heart-felt satisfaction in his eyes 
And gently smiling lips — a tender light. 
Bartholomew leaped up and threw his arm 
About his brother's shoulders : "Is it so? 
Is this dear lady thine ? " 

" She is to be 
After the Feast of Pentecost is done, 
And thou must stay a little longer here 
That I may have thee at my side, the day 
That I receive her as my crown of life." 



6o CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Seven island lie upon the Atlantic seas, 
Kin to the Old World, reaching towards the New 
Seven sister islands, called in olden time 
The Fortunate, the Blessed, the Golden Isles ; 
When endless light received the heroic souls 
Whose deeds had won for them that after-life 
Not granted by the gods to common men. 
Seven islands now, but were the mountain tops, 
Of great Atlantis, when her pointed hills 
To heaven uprising, and her fruitful plains 
Yet lay and shone upon the rolling sea 
Which in these later ages bears her name; 
Which flows along her plains and deep ravines 
To swell and break on Mauritania's shores 
When erst she sank divided. Now those isles 
Are the Canaries, called from the old race 
Which did inhabit there. To northward lies 
On these Atlantic waters Porto Santo 
Not distant far from green Madeira's shore 
Hilly alike, and wooded. Hither came 
Columbus and his wife to dwell awhile 
For here was her inheritance, a house 
A fertile vineyard ; and not far away 
Her sister dwelt, Pedro Correa's spouse. 

Grey rose the rocky island on the sea, 
Grey were the level clouds that hung above, 



MA RRIA GE, A ND FOR TO SA NTO. 6i 

Slowly the soft and odorous winds bore on 

A little ship along grey level waves 

That gently heaved and sank beneath her prow. 

She sailed for Africa, but had on board 

Pedro Correa, and on his account 

Came round to Porto Santo's little town 

To land him there, and in his company 

Columbus' youngest brother. On the prow 

Diego stood, watching for the first sight 

Of this new country where his brother dwelt ; 

His thirty years had not weighed heavily, 

And his frank brow and large black eyes still wore 

The tranquil grace of boyhood ; in his garb 

Was something of monastic style that went 

Well with his innocent, unworldly gaze. 

Still brighter beamed his boyish, eager eyes 

When the ship rounded slow the southern cliffs 

And entered the small harbour by the town. 

Here did Correa and Diego land. 

And passing through the street went out to seek 

The house and vineyard where Columbus dwelt, 

And as they went Correa pointed out. 

With painted roof and long arcaded walls. 

The governor's abode, where once had lived 

Felipa's father, and he afterwards, 

For also he had ruled the colony. 



62 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The island was one hill of solid rock, 
Shelf rising above shelf of fire-formed cliffs 
Yet fertile as the smoothest grassy field; 
Along the narrow plains the sugar-canes 
Rose in soft feathered plumes beside the path 
Where the two men walked on, to mount the cliffs 
Adown whose sides hung snaky cactus stems 
Prickled, and decked with rose or crimson blooms ; 
They passed by orange-groves; upon the slopes 
Were fig and olive, and no larger trees 
Adorned the rocky land, but flowers and herbs 
With balmy odours filled the air they breathed ; 
The wild-bees thronged there, humming in and out 
Of every fragrant flower and of their cells 
Hid in the clefts of the basaltic rocks ; 
White sea-birds soared o'erhead ; their path was 

crossed 
By the grey conies or the lizards green. 

Thus for a mile they took their upward way, 
From ledge to ledge of verdure mounting slow, 
Pausing on every ledge to gaze around ; 
Meanwhile soft pressing through the upper clouds 
The sun shone warm upon the flowers, and rocks 
Mossed over with the grey-brown orchil-weed, 
And the blue glimmer of the circling sea ; 



MA RRIA GE, A ND POR TO SANTO. 63 

They entered then a grove of laurel-trees 

Amidst whose scented sprays and bright, broad leaves 

The silver-gleaming doves or sat or flew 

And made perpetual cooing, each to each. 

In high and lower voices echoing round. 

Thus walking slow with calm enjoyment filled 

Through the dark solemn greenness, they came out 

Where just before them, facing to the sea 

And to a steep ravine of feathering shrubs. 

Rose a straight cliff' up which the liberal vines 

Carried their gorgeous burden, leaf and fruit, 

Purple and green and golden, made indeed 

A glory of abundance. At the foot, 

Shadowed and sheltered by the trailing vines, 

Scarce to be seen for beauty, was the house ; 

Along the front, by rustic columns held, 

Sloped the broad eaves, and in the cool arcade 

Some native women stood in eager groups, 

Excited, talking, who when they beheld 

Strange men advancing, screamed and fled away. 

Correa and Diego entering, called, 

For silent and deserted seemed the place. 

And from an inner chamber came a dame 

Bearing a covered burden. Of a face 

Half like Felipa's, and a comely form. 



64 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The smiling matron was Correa's wife. 
Scarce glancing at her husband she unveiled 
What in her arms she held, a new-born child 
Swaddled and wrapt, then to the wondering men 
Who gazed and questioned : ' ' Yes," she said, " it is 
The little Christopher not one hour old, 
Who waits his father's blessing, for he sailed 
Three months back to Gomera, in the mind 
To be returned ere now. Indeed, at noon 
We saw his ship come in, or so we thought, 
But must have been in error. So do thou," 
And to Diego turned, " take the poor babe 
And cross and bless him for thou art the first 
Of your own kin to see him." So Diego 
Stretched out his arms and took his brother's child. 
And crossed and kissed him, saying, " Precious child, 
Be to thy father all he is to me 
And God will surely bless thee." But meanwhile 
Columbus had come in, a moment paused 
And watched, and then cried out: ' Is she all well ? 
Is the babe's mother well ?" And Pedro's wife. 
Replying, took the child and held it out, 
And he received and laid it on his breast, 
Bending his head above its tiny face. 
And stood in silence for a little time ; 



MARRIAGE, AND PORTO SANTO. 

Then raised his head, and with his serious smile 
Returned the baby to its uncle's arms : 
" Bless him again, Diego, for himself 
And absolutely ; he shall bear thy name 
And thou shalt be his sponsor." And he threw 
His arm about his brother and rejoiced 
Over his coming with the love of old, 
Then with the quick step of his early youth 
Entered the chamber where the mother lay. 
The night had come, Felipa and the babe 
Slumbered in peace ; beneath the low arcade 
Sat the three men conversing. Thick and soft 
The clouds continuous darkened all the sky. 
Warm darkness filled the copses and ravine 
Which lay below them ; fire-flies thronged the air, 
Quick cries of the cicadas and a host 
Of insect-kind, were constant, and the songs 
Of waking birds broke in at every pause 
Of the deep voices of the elder men, 
And of Diego's ever boyish tones. 
" Thou hast seen all the islands ?" Pedro said, 
" Then tell Diego of them, he is set 
Not to believe my stories." " Nay," he said, 
" How should I hold them true ? Correa tells 
That on these verv shores he has beheld 



66 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, 

Pieces of carven wood, brought by the waves 
After strong ga.les from westward, carved and tooled, 
But not with iron instruments like ours, 
And that thou dost believe they came from lands 
Across the ocean, dwelt in by strange men ? 
Strange, yet like us ?" 

" Aye, so I do believe, 
And I know many other signs like those : 
Martin Vincenti, pilot to Prince Henry, 
Found just such pieces far out to the west, 
Hundreds of leagues beyond St. Vincent's cape ; 
He told me also of enormous reeds 
Wrecked on these islands, like the giant canes 
Writ of by Ptolemy, in India. I hear 
From the Azores of pine-trees huge and strange. 
Like none we know of, brought there by the waves ; 
A man from Flores told me he had seen 
Two corpses there washed up upon the beach. 
With their hair still upon them and their flesh, 
Therefore not come from far, and of a hue 
And feature altogether different 
From men in this known world. He told it so 
That none could doubt his tale. " ' ' But, " said Diego, 
" Dost thou then hold it certain there is land 
Beyond the ocean ?" 



AfA RRIA GE, A ND POR TO SA NTO. 67 

" Aye, for years and years 
It hath been sure to me. But not new lands 
Till now unknown of men, but countries seen 
By brave adventurous travellers of old, 
The Rabbi of Tudela, the two Polos ; 
John Mandeville of England : these and more 
Who these four centuries have filled our ears 
With Tartary, Cipango, and Cathay, 
And the great Indies spreading round the world 
Their rich magnificence. Long years has Portugal 
Sought for the southern route by Africa, 
Found in old time by an Egyptian king, 
Found and forgotten ; and in olden time 
Did many a sage and poet prophesy 
The western highway to the eastern lands. 
Yes, it is sure as Christ's blest Sacraments 
That in the regions past the setting sun 
Do lovely countries wait us, which will say — 
When we have won them in the name of Christ — 
' Beautiful are the feet upon the waves. 
Of them who bring glad tidings of great joy.' " 

They all were silent ; then again Diego : 
" But there can never lovelier countries shine 
Than our own Rivieras, West and East, 
Or this same Porto Santo ! As we came 



68 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Up from the town it seemed to me enough 
To see its flowers, to breathe its heavenly air." 
Columbus laughed : " Thou art a little brother 
And ever wilt be. There are many lands 
More bright and gorgeous or of sweeter charms. 
Madeira's wooded island, almost seen 
From where we sit ; Gomera, Teneriffe 
In the Canary Isles — there I have seen 
Sights far more glorious of both flower and tree 
Than I can well describe, and in those isles 
Are skies more glowing both at morn and eve ; 
Airs more celestial, and yet sweeter hopes 
Come floating on them softly from the West." 
" Which islands hast thou seen? " Correa said, 
And then Columbus : " I have been to four ; 
Steep-sided Palma, pointed Teneriffe, 
Small rocky Herro, chosen by Ptolemy 
To fix the line whence every measurement 
To east or west should count ; and now I come 
Back from Gomera. All those isles abound 
In wonderful sights. There stands in Teneriffe 
A tree so strange, so dragon-like, so huge. 
Hung as with swords, coiled branches like to snakes, 
Bleeding red blood at every careless blow — 
It seems the very dragon of old tales 



MA RRIA GE, A ND FOR TO SA NTO. 69 

Fixed and transformed to semblance of a tree ; 
And there are golden birds of sweetest song 
Filling the groves all day with ravishment." 

Diego then : " Hast seen the island called 
After St. Borondon ? The seamen say 
It comes and goes by miracle, and none, 
Soldier nor sailor, has set foot on it, 
Yet those who sail the seas, and those who dwell 
In the Canaries, see it as plain as day, 
And have besought the king of Portugal 
To grant it to their conquest." 

'* True, they have, 
But none will ever find it. 'T is some play 
Of changing heat and cold upon the air, 
And all its hills and vales are but a show 
Of cloud and vapour." " Such," replied Correa 
" As men will call thy projects and thy faith." 
Diego said : " Thou canst not, Christopher, 
Thou canst not deem these things so steadfast sure 
That thou wouldst sail to find those unseen lands ? 
Who would go with thee ? Who would give thee gold ? 
And who the ships ? " Then Christopher arose 
And faced him in the darkness : ' ' My own heart. 
Diego, I am set upon this work 
As called to it by God, no earthly thought 



70 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Can stay me, nor no earthly obstacle 

Can be too difficult. I shall find the means, 

I and Bartholomew — or if we fail, 

I shall appeal to every crowned head 

In Europe and in England ; when one king 

Gives me no countenance I shall seek another. 

I nurse no idle dream, no common plan ; 

Even in my boyhood I was called to this. 

For this I ever hearkened to all tales 

Of danger and adventure on the seas ; 

For this I drank with a prophetic thirst 

The science of the colleges, became 

Fluent in knowledge, yet a seaman true. 

Ready of hand, of cheerful fearless heart. 

" I do not dream, Diego. I shall wait 
Till I have brought together proofs enough 
To stir the dull and worldly, and convince 
Both wise and ignorant. Soon I shall set out 
For the equator, that I may declare 
Of my own knowledge that the tropic seas 
Are not impassable ; some aftertime. 
Far to the north, to dreary ice-bound lands 
Which lie beyond ev'n Thule, I shall go. 
I have good charts and papers from my wife. 
That were her father's, full of useful lore 



MA RRIA GE, A ND FOR TO SA NTO. 7 

That in his many voyages he had gained ; 

And a wise letter from Paul Toscanelli, 

Rich in resource and help. He sent therewith 

Maps made anew from those of Marco Polo, 

And all of best that modern science tells ; 

And such a word of strong encouragement 

As was a God-speed to me, drew the bolts 

And sent the waiting vessel down the slides 

To swing round joyful on the sea of purpose. 

I do not dream, I work ; by day and night 

My great end lies before me clear and plain 

And draws all needful things into itself. 

This voyage I come from now has served me well, 

For now I see that of the westward isles 

Gomera suits me best, for there I find 

A natural harbour large and safe, much corn. 

Abundant water-springs, and thriving flocks ; 

'T is a fit refuge, or fit starting-point, 

For vessels westward bound." 

Then said Correa, 
" But Herro is most westerly." And he : 
" Her coast is steep, her roadstead is not good. 
She has no springs nor woods nor thriving flocks. 
She does not meet my many various needs. 
Yet when I landed there, I felt indeed 



72 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The certainty of my scheme ; for when I stood 
At sunrise on the cliffs, the perfumed air 
Soft pressing on my face, and westward gazed 
Across the blue sea on to the blue sky 
Melting in light below the curving line 
Of the round world, and not a shadow lay 
And not a cloud across my onward path — 
My bosom swelled with sense of coming joy. 
As one who has been parted when a babe 
From her who bare him — having ever held 
Deep in his heart the knowledge of her love 
And a great longing for her, knows at last 
He shall at morn behold his mother's face — 
Even so was I, expectant, strong, and calm. 
Knowing the future." So Columbus spoke. 
And midnight being near they ceased their talk. 
And rising, slowly entered the still house. 

After some weeks had passed he and his wife, 
Drawn by his urgent wishes, went to dwell 
A season in Gomera. Long the months 
That they there sojourned, even until the child 
Could run alone and shout his father's name. 
Columbus then, having fulfilled his voyage 
To the equator, and done all things else 
That he had purpose in the Atlantic Isles 



MA RRIA GE, AND POR TO SA N TO. 73 

Returned to Lisbon, and they there abode 
In their old home again, whence before long 
He took his way to Iceland, to explore 
The tides and seasons of the northern seas. 
Now were the ends so long pursued attained, 
And he stood ready to demand from kings 
Response and aid ; but, standing thus prepared 
Keen for his arduous task, a sudden blow 
Shook his strong soul and well-nigh broke his heart. 
A mortal sickness fell upon his wife, 
Who after some few days of patient pain 
Left him a lonely man, to bear his life, 
Sore-burdened, knowing neither ease nor rest, 
As best he might henceforward, stript and bare 
Of her unfailing care, her tender love. 

To Felipa, In Her Grave. 



Farewell, my best-beloved ; low art thou laid, 

And never smilest more, nor comest near 

My table where I write, to call me dear. 

Or lay thy cheek in silence on my head. 

Yet, sometimes starting on my darkened bed, 

In some far distant place I seem to hear 



74 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

A soft sound like thy footsteps, and my ear 
Awaits in sudden joy thy nearer tread. 
Oh, wild and foolish fancies of a heart 

Driven from all reason by its aching pain ! 
How much more wretched I when you depart 

For that one moment's respite ! How more vain 
The bliss that once I had ! Never again 
Shall I her footsteps hear ; never again. 

n. 

Never again beside me in the street. 
Never again beneath the summer trees ; 
Nor when my ships return upon the breeze 

In my great hour of triumph, wilt thou greet 

My coming home with thy glad eyes and sweet ; 
Nor wilt thou share my glorious destinies 
In the fair lands beyond the western seas : 

All joys and triumphs henceforth incomplete. 

Oh, not mysterious Tartary nor Cathay, 
Nor the vast Indies and Golconda's mine, 

Are now my soul's horizon ! but, away. 
Where far beyond, the borders dimly shine 

Of that strange country, love, which now is thine, 

Which draws my yearning spirit night and day. 



CANTO IV. 

IN PORTUGAL. 

/^N the old Mole of Genoa superb 

Stood Christopher Columbus once again. 
The time being come to crowned heads to appeal, 
Or proud republic — to his own city first 
His princely scheme he carried, proud to lay 
Before her feet the promise of the West : 
Glory and treasure ; vast imperial rule ; 
The blessing of the Church for heathen souls 
Brought in to Christ ; the never-dying fame 
For those who first should dare the boundless seas. 
The wilderness of waters lying west. 
But Genoa might not listen to his prayer 
Nor grant to his entreaty ships and men 
To win the whole for her, for she was sad. 
Distressed by enemies, oppressed and poor ; 
She might not give her treasure nor her strength 
To new adventure, howsoever great, 
75 



76 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

However glorious. He but remained 

To make more comfort in his father's home 

And cheer the white-haired, tremulous old man 

With his kind presence, and to Venice then, 

A mistress of the sea, he bore his scheme. 

But Venice also, burdened with her wars 

And her oppressors, had no ear to give 

To his bold prophecies ; and he returned 

Again to Genoa to bid farewell 

For ever to the city of his birth, 

The hilly city of his boyish days. 

To Portugal he made his next appeal, 
And waited long in patience : the old king. 
Whose earlier reign had seen her great advance 
Along the paths of science, who had gone 
With good Prince Henry hand in hand to make 
Her place the first in maritime research — 
And great discoveries also on the land — 
Now waged a losing warfare with Castile 
Engaging all his people and himself, 
And Christopher's fantastic enterprise 
Could take no hold upon the public mind. 
But when Alfonzo died and to the throne 
King John the Second came, the eager times 
Of good Prince Jlenry seemed renewed again ; 



IN PORTUGAL. 



The king with love of enterprise was fired 

And sent out brave explorers ; some to seek 

Amidst his wide Tartarian realms and hordes, 

The old-reputed convert, Prester John, 

In Middle Asia chief ; others went forth 

By way of Egypt to the greatest towns 

And most renowned, of India ; who returning 

By Mozambique there heard the strange report 

Of a great cape, the extreme southern point 

Of Africa, and of vast seas beyond, 

Where the Atlantic Ocean and the tides 

Of India must be confluent. This great news 

Roused in the king a stirring memory 

Of Henry's great design, and fixed his mind 

Round Africa to seek the Indian mines. 

His glowing zeal aroused his people's heart 

Into its old ambitions, and he urged 

His learned men to fashion into use 

The ancient astrolabe, which they with skill, 

Musing and calculating, formed at last 

Into that subtle, faithful instrument 

Whereby the mariner afar from land 

Learns from the sun or polar star his place 

Upon the trackless waters undefined. 

So the whole people with the king, once more 



78 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Were filled with longing for the ocean-ways. 
In that wide-spreading fervour Christopher 
Beheld his hour of promise, and at length 
By strenuous efforts the permission won 
To enter the king's presence and to speak 
Freely of all his purpose and his proofs. 
By his bold, glowing speech King John was stirred 
Through every thought, a new ambition grew, 
A passionate desire for this great scheme 
As yet untried, suggestive of all hope. 
And he hung spell-bound on the argument. 
But when Columbus made his lofty claim 
To rule in all lands where he should set foot 
First of Christ's children ; and to hold such right 
For all his heirs in perpetuity ; 
To be entitled " Viceroy," and yet more 
In his esteem, " The Admiral," and his sons 
And his sons' sons for ever ; a great chill 
Of pride and jealousy seized upon the king, 
He turned against the offered enterprise, 
He termed the thoughtful, patient, steadfast man 
A grasping schemer, hot-brained, arrogant, 
A visionary, and would hear no more. 
But still the vision hovered round his thoughts, 
He longed after the glory and the gold, 



IN PORTUGAL. 79 



Could not forget the great majestic dream, 
And knew it was not emptiness nor vain. 
Twice he renewed enquiry, giving in charge 
To Lord de Cazadilla, Bishop of Ceuta 
And his chief learned men, to hear in full 
From Christopher himself the evidence 
And grounds of his belief ; and twice they met— 
Once in a general conclave of the realm — 
And twice declared the project wholly vain 
And he who had imagined it, half crazed 
By insolent pretence and lonely dreaming ; 
Better to follow on the glorious track 
Where Portugal already knew her way. 
Had reaped rich harvest, and already won 
A splendid fame ; by her Prince Henry loved 
Who seemed from out his grave to point her on, 
Praying her not to slight his cherished aims 
And the long labours of his strenuous life : 
And all the conclave chose the southern route. 

Now some months after that great conference. 
Up the steep city from her crowded quays 
Columbus and his brother took their way, 
Bartholomew being just come back from sea. 
Tall was he, of a proud and manly port 
And like his brother, but of sterner mien. 



8o CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

In their own tongue they talked, rapid and low, 
With many an earnest gesture and knit brows, 
Nor heeded those they passed : the sun shone down 
His fiercest, but the water-bearer's cry 
(Wheeling his painted barrel down the street 
And ever calling " Water,") won no heed ; 
The gay fadista with his gay guitar 
Could get no hearing from them, and the beggar 
Held out his hand in vain ; the courteous bow 
Or greeting of acquaintance in the street 
Received a scant response. Hastening along 
Up to the old square called "Of the Two 

Churches " 
Where, being noon, the sacristan was gone 
And the whole place deserted, they sat down 
Within the shadows of a sculptured porch 
And earnestly talked on. 

Columbus spoke 
With ever-gathering frown : ** I said before 
How the king's mind and fancy were impressed, 
And musing often on the good he lost, 
He was won over in an evil hour 
To listen to my Lord de Cazadilla, 
Who poured this poisonous counsel in his ears — 
That he should send a ship out secretly 



IN PORTUGAL. 



To seek my route, guided by my own charts, 

My written plans and notes, which I had furnished 

As I was bid to do, for fresh discussions — 

And in an evil hour the thing was done. 

' ' A caravel went out on fair pretence 

Of goods to carry to the Cape de Verdes, 

Then once at sea endeavoured to work out 

The courses learned from me. But God is just, 

Their fleshly hearts unstayed by inward truth 

Upon the wide and pathless waters quailed. 

Unlike to Peter with his burning heart 

Of faith and love within the feeble flesh. 

Trembling they hastened back, loudly declared 

There were no lands to win nor way to go, 

And denounced me a false and ignorant man ; 

The Bishop's adverse counsel was confirmed, 

The judgment of the conclave justified. 

Now never more will I give ear or trust 

To this poor king, nor will I longer dwell 

Here in this traitorous city. For long time 

Has gallant, sunny Lisbon been to me 

A place of sorrows ; now my days run on 

And I am nigh on fifty years of age. 

And yet I seem no nearer to my ends ; 

I stay here but to greet thee and to tell 
6 



82 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The burden of my spirit : I am bound 
For England by Oporto, and I go 
This very night from Lisbon secretly ; 
King John is fain to speak with me again 
And very jealous lest I find a friend 
And better fortune in some other land — 
Therefore in haste and secretly I go." 
Then said Bartholomew, " No, go not now 
To England, I have messages for thee 
From Pedro and Sebastian. As we came 
Up from the coast of Guinea with our load 
Of slaves and gold-dust, and on board with us 
Pedro Correa, we put in at Sagres — " 
Then exclaimed Christopher : " And how is he, 
My good Sebastian ? Never any man 
Had better friend than he." 

"Well, he is well, 
Although his hair is white and he is bent 
And his strength leaves him daily. Now he sends 
His counsel to thee thus : to seek in Spain, 
Of Ferdinand and Isabella, aid. 
They are a noble pair, and being joined 
In heart as well as power can move as one, 
With every force and virtue twice endowed." 
"But," said Columbus, ** how should I approach 



IN PORTUGAL. 



Castile and Arragon ? To England's king 
I can get access through our countrymen 
John Cabot and his sons, but in all Spain 
Pedro Correa is my only friend." 

" Aye, but Sebastian can procure thee friends, 
He has acquaintance with two mighty lords, 
La Cerda and De Guzman are they named, 
Dukes of Medina Celi and Sidonia. 
They have vast tracts of land along the coast, 
Vessels and captains and a princely wealth 
And minds as princely ; they will join thy scheme 
With hand and fortune for themselves, or stand 
Its sponsors for thee with the king and queen. 
La Cerda chiefly is his hope for thee, 
Correa knows him by report right well 
And bids thee take Sebastian's counselling, 
Who sends these letters to commend thee there. 
Wherefore go not to England, but abide 
A little here till some convenient ship 
Shall sail to Cadiz." 

" Aye, I will to Spain, 
The good Sebastian helps me in my need, 
It is a sign from Heaven. But I must go 
Up by the Tagus as I have prepared. 
For I have hired to take my boy and me 



84 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The master of a river-trading barge, 

Who is both staunch and secret, and my friend ; 

But at Abrantes I will change my course, 

Cross to the Gaudiana and go south 

And then take ship for Cadiz. But meanwhile 

Go thou to England, brother, in my place. 

Take to the king a map that thou wilt find 

Amongst my papers that is destined for him. 

And offer him my plan, my whole great scheme ; 

The Cabots will receive thee for my sake 

With every forwarding." 

" Nay," said his brother, 
"I cannot, Christopher, undertake it now 
Even for thee, for I am pledged to sail 
With Diaz on the southern route again, 
King John already has ordained the voyage." 

" Then it must be so, but on thy return 
Make no delay, we cannot say how soon 
This Spanish hope may fail me ; and meanwhile 
See to some goods I leave here, charts and books ; 
Those of most value to me I shall take. 
And little else I have in all the world. 
And now farewell." The two embraced and 

parted, 
Columbus to his house. Bartholomew, 



IN PORTUGAL. 85 



When he had watched his brother out of sight, 
Down to his ship beside the busy quay. 

Again a little later that same day 
The vesper bell was ringing in the church 
Of All Saints above Lisbon. Thither came 
Columbus and his son, for in the aisle 
Stands the low tombstone where Felipa lies, 
And Christopher has come to look his last 
Upon her grave, and share for the last time 
The vesper prayers at All Saints as of old. 
The boy went in, his hands were full of flowers, 
Of myrtle and of jasmine which he spread 
With childish, mystic joy upon the tomb ; 
His father lingered just within the door 
And saw the altar all ablaze with light 
Poured by the sunshine through the glowing panes 
Of the west window, making bright the place 
Where stood Felipa w^hen his sudden love 
Foreknew his wife, and her sweet voice and she 
Took up their habitation in his heart. 
The sacred rites began, Diego came 
And drew his father towards the altar-rails 
Among the worshippers ; above the quire 
Behind a lattice, were the convent nuns 
Singing and chanting as in former days. 



86 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

But on Columbus' ear their singing fell 

And was not music ; prayer nor blessing spoke 

To him of consolation, and he rose 

Glad when the rites were done. Diego went 

Out with the rest into the evening light, 

Nor missed at first his father's company. 

He plucked the red pomegranate flowers, which 

grew 
Against the convent wall, he chased the birds 
Settling amongst the trees, he turned to hear 
The hoopoo's triple cry, and watched the ships 
Drop slowly down the Tagus, and he heard 
The songs and noises of the town below : 
But when the ancient sacristan appeared 
With his large keys, the boy went in again 
And found his father stretched along the tomb 
Upon his face, who, when he heard his son, 
Rose slowly up with haggard countenance, 
And stood before him. Then the child bewailed 
The broken flowers, but Christopher replied, 
" Kneel down, Diego, kiss thy mother's name 
And say farewell to her, in all thy days 
Thou wilt not find a love like hers again." 
The wondering boy obeyed him, half afraid 
Of the hoarse high-strung voice and tightened lips, 



IN PORTUGAL. 87 



And then his father with a gentle clasp 
Drew him away and went with heavy strides 
Across the citron-field he knew of old, 
And down a lonely place outside the town 
Amid the gathering shadows of the night. 

At last Diego : " Father, where dost go, 
We have long passed the turning to the gates?" 
" Down to the river child, 'twill please thee well 
To go out sailing in the starlit night, — 
But hold thy peace now till I let thee speak." 
Thus silent they continued on their way 
Down to the water, where beside the bank 
Was moored a river-barge laden in midst 
With merchandise of Lisbon high up-piled ; 
The master sat upon the bales, to him 
Columbus made a sign and being answered, 
Lifted Diego in and sprang on board. 
The boatmen rose, unmoored the boat and stood 
And rowed her slowly up the moving waste 
Of black and circling waters, where the stars 
Flashed in and out and quivered — towards the hills 
Lying to northward low and dimly seen. 
The master waited kindly on his guests, 
Gave them of his rough fare and laid a cloak 
To make the boy a bed, where soon he slept, 



88 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Whilst Christopher sat near with folded arms 
In sleepless silence through the starlit night. 
For there arose upon his inward thought 
Sweet visions of the days of passionate love 
Crowned by betrothal and its passionate joy ; 
Then the short blissful years of wedded life 
Made long by love renewed from day to day, 
And all its constant cares of tenderness, 
And the close nearer growth of soul to soul ; 
And now he left the places thus made dear, 
And went forth desolate of woman's care, 
Of tender touch or kiss, for evermore : 
The woe of widowhood was on his soul. 

A light wind rose at dawn, the boatmen spread 
Their large red sail and rested from their oars ; 
The sun rose bright on the long barren range 
Of steep Estrella, on the verdant isles 
Shaded by weeping willows, on the fields 
Whence rose on either hand the peasants' songs 
Answering above the slowly gliding barge ; 
And when Diego wakened up and laughed, 
A soft light came upon his father's face 
And they together made their matin prayers. 
Three days and nights they sailed until they came 
Into Abrantes ; thence without delay 



IN PORTUGAL. 89 



Forward they went again. At first on foot, 
Their coffers carried in a country cart 
Light-railed, with wheels of solid circled wood 
Creaking and groaning. Still by fertile fields 
Awhile they journeyed, then through tracks of sand 
And dreary moors where heath and cistus grew 
High as the wheels, and with his broad, blunt knife 
Their peasant-guide must cut them out a way ; 
By myrtle growths, by solitary pines, 
By quick and sparkling streamlets lay their road. 
And ever as they went the crushing wheels 
Made plants and herbage fragrant ; over hills 
Rugged and bare they plodded. Weary days 
And nights of little rest. The child was brave 
And went along in patience day by day, 
He ever had the best their food supplied. 
He slept at night upon his father's arm, 
And when sometimes the well-resisted tears 
Came to his eyes, in secret, as he thought, 
His father came beside him in the cart. 
And told him stories of his early days 
At Genoa, or Pavia, or at sea ; 
But oft the play and chatter of the boy 
Beguiled the father from his weary thoughts. 
More pleasant times came in the chestnut woods 



go CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

About Estremoz ; on the mountain pass, 

And on the woody hills, rocks and ravines 

By which they reached at last the rugged shores 

Of Guadiana. Christopher here stayed 

To rest the child, and that his purpose grew 

To -go on by the river both for speed 

And greater ease in travelling, and he hired 

An uncouth boat such as the fishermen 

Used for their craft — no other could be found 

In that wild place ; then he laid in their stores 

For three days' sailing, took a man to row, 

And they set forth upon their dangerous way 

Down the swift flowing river. To Diego 

The perilous voyage was pleasant ; when noon 

came 
They made their boat fast in some cool recess 
And the boy climbed the rocks for flowers and 

berries. 
At night he set his simple snares for fish. 
Such as frequent at night the shallow pools 
Clear of the deep black waters that he feared ; 
Often the boatman sang or told him tales, 
And the boy wished the pleasant voyage would 

last. 
But on the third day's sailing, far ahead 



IN PORTUGAL. 



The roaring of rough waters reached their ears, 
On either hand yet higher rose the clifJs 
And darkened overhead until they seemed 
As newly rent apart, and at their feet 
The narrowed river furious tore along 
And broke in dangerous rapids down the rocks. 
Even now the boat the restless movement felt, 
And quivered and rocked dizzily and turned ; 
With anxious toil they brought her to the shore, 
And with much risk Columbus saved the boy 
And got their coffers out, thankful at heart 
His books and papers met no injury. 

Here with much trouble he procured an ass 
To bear the child and one to take their goods, 
Going on foot himself, and painfully 
Went down to Alcontim. Here broad and free 
The river flows and safely bears its craft 
Down to its mouth and port, Castro-Marim. 
Their asses sold, they stood upon the bank 
Waiting the barge to take them down the stream 
And watching the sweeping river ; some slight 

thing 
Stirred in Columbus' mind and turned his thoughts 
To old Sebastian, a great longing came 
To go the more than hundred miles that stretched 



g* CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

From Alcontim to Sagres, and once more 

See his old friend, but glancing round, his eyes 

Fell on Diego, and he thought " No, child, 

Thou art too tender for it, thou hast borne 

Enough at this time of thy father's lot 

Of toil and travel ; we will leave at once 

This treacherous country and with hearts un- 

crushed, 
Go forth to seek good fortune otherwhere." 



CANTO V. 

PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND COR- 
DOVA. 

DENEATH a sky of perfect, cloudless blue, 

On board a little ship for Cadiz bound 
Columbus and his son left Portugal. 
Standing upon the poop they watched the shore 
Grow slowly dimmer as they sailed away 
From the rough rocks and breakers, and Columbus 
At every moment felt his spirit rise 
Released from cares immediate, and renewed 
In hope and forward looking. Through the night 
Those gracious skies that cheered their parting 

changed 
Pouring down rain and tempest, till at dawn 
They helpless drove upon the Spanish coast 
Far north of Cadiz, tossed upon the shore 
Amidst the rocks and breakers till they struck. 
** Now courage ! " cried Columbus to the boy, 
93 



94 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Whom drenched and faint he lifted from the ship : 
" Comes worst, comes best, after the storm the sun." 
Thus first they stepped upon the soil of Spain. 

Late the next day, the wanderers going north 
To seek for help at Palos de Moguer, 
Missing their way, came to a gloomy hill 
Crowned by a convent of Franciscan friars 
To Mary of La Rabid dedicate. 
Up the steep path beneath the closing shade 
Of tall dark pine-trees wearily they climbed 
The rugged stones, then came out suddenly 
Close by the convent-front and into sight 
Of the wide ocean lying still and fair 
Beneath the clear light of the setting sun. 
Down to the right was Palos by the Tinto, 
The river of green waters, on the heights 
Beyond was Huelva, and afar the cliffs 
Of Portugal sloped melting to the west ; 
Below they heard the waves in ripples break, 
Making soft regular music on the sands. 
"0, father!" cried the child "this must be 
Heaven." 

They rested here, and at the convent-gate 
Columbus begged for water and for bread 
For the boy's supper, these the porter brought 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA. 95 

With ready kindness and Diego sat 

On the stone bench and ate the simple food. 

Now at that time was Juan Perez prior, 

A grave and learned person, who had been 

The queen's confessor in her early youth. 

He, passing on his business through the court, 

Beheld the strangers and forthwith came out 

To give them greeting and enquire their news, 

Whence they were come and whither they were 

bound. 
Columbus stretched his hand out towards the west : 
" There am I bound. Some twenty years ago 
I watched that setting sun, and vowed to bear 
The Cross of my Redeemer on the waves 
To the dark savage lands. In all that time 
I have not once forgotten, nor delayed 
To serve my purpose in all lawful ways ; 
Then I was in my full and lusty prime, 
Now I am in the years when strength of limb 
Ere long must fail, when eyes must soon wax dim 
And my ears duller, but my heart is young, 
My faith is stronger, God above is just." 
The prior made answer, praying of his guest 
To open out the meaning of his words ; 
Eager his lively spirit sprang to meet 



96 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The tale Columbus told, and there they sat, 

Looking across the shining western waves 

Wherein the crescent moon went slowly down, 

And Christopher expounded proof on proof, 

Thrilling his hearer with the glorious things 

His strong imagination pictured forth 

In words of fire — whilst darkness settled down 

And on his knees Diego sat and slept, 

For whilst they talked the boy had scrambled up 

Into the well-known shelter of his arms. 

They were the prior's guests that night and so, 
For a day longer, and the simple friars. 
To whom their coming was as a romance, 
Cherished and cared for them, and Perez said : 
' ' I would the queen could hear you ! but those 

dukes 
To whom you go will sure be helpful friends." 
And so they said farewell and came to Cadiz — 
Cadiz that stands where once the city stood 
And temple of her god, as may be seen 
By her armorial bearings — Hercules 
Contending with two lions — and the motto 
" Gadis Fundamentor Dominatorque." 
Cadiz, white Cadiz, standing by great tracts 
Of flat and dreary salt-lands, but herself 



PA LOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA, qj 

Set steadfastly upon a rocky point 

That stretched out northwards half across the bay, 

Receiving on its stern unchanging front 

The great Atlantic's furious assault, 

Guarding behind its long sea-beaten ridge 

A place of quiet waters safe and calm. 

The two great dukes whose aid Columbus sought. 

Were under arms and at the royal camp. 

Leading their forces in the arduous wars 

Which slowly pressed the Moorish people back 

And now had left them but Granada's vale 

And all that lies beyond to south and east : 

There were Sebastian's letters sent to them. 

And both wrote kindly to Sebastian's friend. 

La Cerda prayed Columbus to abide 

In a small Moorish mansion that he had 

Near to Jerez, and wait there until himself 

From these long wars and court intrigues set free 

Might come to be his host. Therefore at once 

Columbus and Diego journeyed forth. 

Through miles of golden vineyards lay their road, 

And in the midst of all those glowing bowers 

They found the little city known afar 

By its tall palm trees with their feathery crowns ; 

Some miles beyond it stood La Cerda's house, 
7 



98 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Built on a low hill by the Guadalete. 
Courts, and light-pillared arches pierced and carved, 
Whence hung the flowering creepers ; balconies 
Looking across the stream and vine-clad slopes ; 
Fountains and coloured pavements, made the home 
Where Christopher and his Diego dwelt 
For many weary months that dragged along, 
Guests in a house without its lord — ill-served. 

During those months of waiting, Christopher 
Laboured at his old trade and taught his boy, 
And when a store of maps and charts was made 
They carried them together down to Cadiz, 
To sell there to a man whose business lay 
In charts and scientific instruments. 
Gladly he took such work as Christopher's, 
And many a learned long discourse they held ; 
Columbus afterwards would seek his son 
On the long sea-ridge, where Diego sat 
And fished with slender line for the red mullets 
Abounding in those seas, above his head 
Sea-mew and snowy gannet swept and cried, 
And Christopher stood by, his lonely soul 
Cheered by the salt air and the sight of waves. 

In the full summer to the Moorish house 
Came home La Cerda of the tufted cheek — 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA. 99 

Sign of his old and royal French descent. 

Gay was he and a very gallant soldier, 

Haughty, of fancy quick, and warm of heart ; 

He took a lively pleasure in his guest 

And often were they seen in deep discourse, 

Sitting together in the balconies 

Or slowly pacing the arched corridors, 

Columbus telling all his scheme and proofs, 

The Spaniard hanging on the glowing tale 

Ardent and hopeful, but the help he gave 

Was but fair promises, and still a home. 

De Guzman came and listened, hoped and longed, 

And also had Columbus to his house. 

Treated him well, and opened out his heart 

To hear him fully ; then both lords returned 

To join King Ferdinand in the winter wars — 

For through the great heats needful truce was made. 

Slowly the months went by until in spring 
La Cerda came again, and this time gave 
His whole mind to Columbus, who so much 
Did work upon him that he was resolved 
To give up certain caravels for the voyage, 
Saying : ' ' My forefathers were sovereigns once 
Of the Canary Islands, and it seems 
A natural thing for me to give you aid 



loo CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

In carrying out a grander thought than theirs. 
In my own port St. Mary lie the ships 
Ready for service, go down with your son 
And see if they will answer to your needs. 
With kindling eyes Columbus called his son 
And they set forth together, riding mules 
Richly caparisoned, from La Cerda's stalls, 
And went down through the early heat of May. 
Then as they rode, " See now," Columbus said, 
" How summer opens both for Spain and me 
And with the fragrance of the blossoming vines 
Surrounds our way to glory. Never, boy, 
Give up thy nobler, honest hopes till death ; 
Though late, my summer comes, and in her gift 
The autumn fruits unseen grow ripe and full." 
They came to Port St. Mary where they found 
The vessels lying ready ; carefully 
Columbus searched them over, stem to stern, 
Masts, sails and ropes, and anchors, and he saw 
They were in every point well made and fitted. 
New, strong, entirely suited to the use 
He had for them. So with rejoicing hearts 
He and his son went back. 

Beside the board 
After the evening banquet, lingered still 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, A ND CORDOVA . loi 

La Cerda and his guests, with jest and song 

Passing the pleasant hours, when Christopher 

Came quickly to his presence travel-soiled 

And tired. La Cerda prayed him rest and eat 

Ere talking with him, but Columbus stood, 

And scantly thanking him, with glowing cheeks 

And eyes that kindled from their very depths, 

" My lord," he said, " the caravels will do. 

And when I weigh my anchors and go forth, 

And when I come again triumphant home 

On you the glory of my work will shine. 

For now you give into my hand the key 

Of greater conquests than by ancient Greek, 

Hero or king, or Roman emperor. 

Have ever yet been made. No less a thing 

Than all the golden Ophir of the East ; 

The wealth that gorgeous Solomon upbuilt 

Into the temple of the living God, 

Spread on its walls and carven cedar roof 

And Holiest Holy Shrine. The lands whence 

came 
The Royal Magi with the royal gifts 
They brought in homage to the Holy Babe ; 
The lands where kings build palaces of gold, 
Of sardonyx and jasper lay the floors. 



I02 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Panel the walls with richly carven woods — 
Sendal and camphor and black ebony ; 
Whose dishes are of crystal set with gems, 
Or of one emerald or amethyst, 
As was that wondrous cup, the Holy Grail ; 
Whose halls are lighted by great carbuncles, 
Nor need the flame of torches nor of lamps, 
Are fragrant with the smoke of frankincense. 
Amber and musk and many a richer gum ; 
Whose streams cast up the pearl and diamond. 
These countries are the earthly Paradise 
Told of by travellers, to whose eyes they seemed 
The Eden whence original man was driven — 
But that they are not, they are open still 
And no terrific angel guards their gates. 
Nor flaming sword forbids our entrance there." 

Then said one present, " Fools may enter there, 
What are those lands but the fools' paradise 
We heard of in our childhood? Travellers' tales." 
Another said : ' ' We need not go so far 
To find your fairy palaces, — ere long 
When the Alhambra has been won, such things 
Will all be ours in Spain." 

La Cerda then, 
Who had sat leaning back at ease, his arm 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA. 103 

Resting upon the table, now and then 

Stroking his dark moustache and with a smile 

Watching Columbus in his eager speech : 

" Grant it is so, my lord ; but since our land 

Grows wider as we conquer, we may find 

Uses for many treasures. Should we rest 

Content with what the Moors have done for us 

And build no more of towns or palaces. 

My caravels may go upon the service 

That they were destined for, and take my wines 

In homely fashion to some neighbouring port. 

But if," and he sat up, "we would adorn 

Our land with beauty such as we may learn 

Ev'n from our foes, who, heathens though they be 

And deadly warriors, have the gift of grace. 

If we would raise and keep great armaments 

For further conquests, all these eastern stores 

Would not be too abundant, and I think 

None of us so desires a Spartan life. 

Or leans so much to hermitage and cell, 

But that a mine or so of gems and gold 

Would sink into our land like rain on fields." 

Then said the former speaker : " But why seek 
By new strange ways these treasures ? Be content 
To bring them as of old they have been brought — 



I04 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Up the Red Sea, across the Syrian sands." . . . 

Then Christopher broke in : * ' Those ways are 
slow, 
And Portugal imagines greater things 
Than to pursue them ; she would have a route 
Wholly her own ; she does not rest content 
With her new stores in Africa, but thinks 
Down that west coast to find an easterly way 
More speedy to the old resorts, while I 
Already know a quicker and sure route 
Straight over the unhindered westward seas. 
Our world is lesser than we think, the seas 
Are narrower, farther spreads the solid land 
Round to this side. No, nor shall Portugal 
Slow-coasting, cautious, win the golden East." 

The Duke no longer listened with a smile, 
With brow compressed and darkening eyes he 

spoke : 
•' This must be further thought on, for this scheme 
Grows larger as we face it, no safe thing 
It may be for a private gentleman 
To come across the claims of crowned heads, 
Or take such vast and weighty enterprise 
Out of the hands of monarchs. Let it be, 
And I will speak to-morrow finally. 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, A ND CORDOVA . 105 

But sit you down, sir, rest yourself and eat, 
We will talk further after a night's thought." 

Columbus sat down wearily, he saw 
La Cerda's mind was settled, and all hope 
Of the good caravels was at an end. 
Then in his thoughts he answered to himself : 
' ' I have not said the best, I was so set 
To rouse their earthly fancy and their greed 
I did forget my highest argument, 
Christ's service to the heathen. I am shamed, 
And these two years of waiting are a waste. 
Well, all this night I shall awake and muse 
And with the morning rise to some fresh quest 
In furtherance of my scheme." When morning 

came 
He rose determined to go straight to France 
And there present his offers. Hearing this, 
La Cerda, pacing with him to and fro 
Under the poplars, praying him yet to stay 
For answer to the letters he would write 
To Isabella — urging her to take 
Into her own hand for its furtherance 
This scheme magnificent and wonderful, 
And recommending to her favouring care 
Him who had boldness to conceive the scheme, 



io6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Courage and skill to guide it to its end — 
Thus to the queen at Cordova the duke wrote. 
Below the southern slopes of the long range 
Of dark Morena, by the Guadalquivir 
Stands Cordova, red glowing in the sun ; 
Her old walls, her cathedral old and huge, 
And her bell-tower, survey the plains around 
Fertile in country-wealth of fruits and corn, 
And well adorned with many various trees. 
In old days she was ravaged by Castile 
From the Morescos and left desolate ; 
But now her long-deserted streets and squares 
Rang with the stir of warfare ; all round 
Were stationed tents and barracks, stores of arms, 
Stable and forage — round and within her walls 
The troops of horses, the bands of armed men. 
The gallant leaders, the camp-followers. 
The noise of horn and trumpet, and the clang 
Of arms and armour, sounded day and night. 
Here Isabella ruled, and hence sent help 
Into the south, where Ferdinand laid siege 
To Moclin in Granada, and where else 
The Spanish arms met Moslem. Here her care, 
Her brave heart and her steady constant mind 
Dealing with all this rude and warlike gear, 



PA LOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA. 107 

Maintained such perfect law, such smooth despatch 
As a wise housewife uses in her home. 

Hither Columbus at her summons came, 
With eyes once more alight and soul on fire ; 
But in the midst of all that warlike coil 
He came not near the queen, nor could she give 
One leisure hour to listen to his suit ; 
Yet of his welfare mindful, him bestowed 
With her comptroller of the treasury 
De Quintanilla ; shortly afterwards 
Departing to join Ferdinand at the camp, 
And not again returned to Cordova 
Till Moclin had surrendered to their arms. 
Now weary to Columbus were the weeks. 
The lingering slow suspense, the wasted time ; 
But by De Quintanilla's kindness came 
Good gifts of friendship, at his house he met 
His well-known countrymen the Geraldini, 
Who in his after troubles served him well ; 
Also a gentleman of Cordova, 
Don Pedro de Arana, and with these 
He had congenial converse, and they shared 
His cherished thoughts and plans. Both warm of 

heart 
And true of hand was Pedro, and, much loving 



io8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



These talks with Christopher, often and again 

Made him his guest ; the first time that Columbus 

Came to his house, his sister Beatrix 

Sat by the window at her tambour frame, 

The sunshine falling softly on her head 

And deftly moving hand. She little spoke, 

But listened rapt to Christopher's discourse. 

Looking up often with quick sympathy 

In his ambitions and his sufferings ; 

And whilst he talked, his thoughts were ever drawn 

More and more frequently to see and note 

Soft sparkling hazel eyes and gold-brown hair, 

A clear pale olive skin, a changing cheek, 

A mouth as sweet and curved as rose-leaves are, 

A slow soft smile, a gracious form ; she seemed 

Like boughs of orange-blossoms in the room. 

So in the lingering months his weary heart 

Drank eagerly a full refreshing draught. 

He loved her and she him, and he had rest 

And joy amidst his waiting. 

Now there comes 
News of the queen's return. Hark ! hark ! the 

sound 
Of triumph and rejoicing ! To the voice 
Of horn and trumpet, towards the river-side 



PA L OS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, A ND CORDO VA. 109 



The royal pair ride on victorious, 

Bringing their conquering army. At the gates 

The bishop waits them, and before they cross 

The bridge of many arches they dismount, 

And side by side beneath a canopy 

Borne by four acolytes, they pace along 

To follow him with all their warlike train 

In solemn, glad procession through the gates. 

Columbus waited there amongst the crowd 

And then first saw the calm benignant queen. 

And Ferdinand, her bold sagacious spouse ; 

He followed with the rest, and gave his voice 

To the loud acclamations. On they went 

Chanting and giving thanks, a crucifix 

Carried in front up the cathedral nave 

Amidst the columns multitudinous 

Of jasper, porphyry, marbles various hued. 

The spoils of Roman fanes from far and near 

Brought by the Moors for building up the pomp 

Of this great mosque for their own Moslem rites — 

Now to a holier worship consecrate. 

And this day draped with flags, with trophies hung. 

Here, after silence whilst the sovereigns prayed 

And priests and choristers assumed their place. 

The warrior-lords and men-at-arms their rank, 



no CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And Cordova pressed in on every side, 
Arose the chanted creed, the organ's boom, 
And last the jubilant Te Deum loud ; 
As the sweet smoke of incense filled the fane 
Religious zeal inflamed the warrior's joy. 
The mighty sound of thousand voices swelled 
And echoed through the city and the sky. 
Then in the splendid busy days that came, 
Columbus had no hearing and no place, 
And before many weeks the royal pair 
Being advertised of trouble in the north, 
Rebellion in Gallicia, travelled there, 
Swift to do justice ; and that wrong being quelled 
And peace established, turned to Salamanca 
Beside the river Tormes and set up 
Their court there, being minded to remain 
In the old city through the winter-time — 
The city styled of old the lesser Rome, 
By reason of its many stately domes, 
Its large and noble buildings, streets and squares 
Of ivory-coloured stone, arched, richly carved. 
When Christmas time was passed, in the New 
Year, 
To Salamanca, now oft veiled in snow, 
Came Christopher Columbus once again 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA, in 

Ardent and hoping, trusting to be heard 

In this more peaceful season, and his hopes 

Were well fulfilled. De Quintanilla's zeal 

Engaged the close attention of the priest 

Gonzalez de Mendoza, next in power 

To the two sovereigns, highest in their trust, 

Grand Cardinal of Spain. Opposed at first 

To wild imaginations, he was won 

To give attentive hearing and to seek 

From Christopher himself a full display 

Of all the scope and bearing of his scheme. 

Of quick and subtle intellect, and fine sense 

Of lofty aspiration, long he sought 

Like hearing for him from King Ferdinand, 

On whom he warmly urged the enterprise ; 

And Ferdinand was gained at last to hear. 

Columbus spoke his whole mind to the king 

Who saw the worth and courage of the man, 

The courage and the grandeur of his scheme. 

And keenly longed to keep the whole for Spain. 

But first, like John of Portugal, he charged 

A learned junto to enquire and hear 

So great a matter and pronounce to him 

If it were good or no ; the queen's confessor, 

De Talavera grave and erudite. 



112 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Practised in business, called the conference. 

Meanwhile, one morning waiting at the court 
To meet De Talavera, Christopher 
Stood in a gallery vsdndow, and he watched 
The snowflakes falling on the stones and melting 
So soon as they were fallen, and while he gazed, 
Listless, and thought how oft his efforts fell 
And melted on the instant, there came in 
The queen herself, Isabella, fair, full-sized, 
A soft veil resting on her chestnut hair 
And falling on her shoulders, her mild eyes 
Blue and clear-beaming ; for all retinue 
There followed her a good and noble dame 
Prince Juan's nurse, Joanna de la Torre, 
And two young maidens. When Columbus heard 
The entering steps he turned, and struck with joy. 
Swelling with heartfelt worship, he knelt down 
And kissed her garment's hem. " I know you, sir," 
She said in her kind voice, " I know you well, 
The Christopher Columbus who so long 
Has sought our presence. Rise, sir, let me hear 
All you have told already to the king." 
So she sat queenly down, and he arose 
And stood before her and laid bare his heart ; 
For she was quick to understand and feel, 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA. 113 

And her strong serious spirit answered his 

As deep calls unto deep, as star to star 

Utters his music. When he had explained 

The scheme of his great voyage she replied : 

" Sir, I much marvel at your confidence ; 

The great sea is so like eternity. 

So vague and so unknown. Not near the land, 

Not in your well-known courses can you fear, 

You least, a seaman practised and assured — 

But that great unknown ocean, as I say, 

So like eternity from which no man 

Returns — do you not fear it ?" 

*' Madam, no. 

Think how the soaring falcon far from earth 

Hangs motionless, committing all his weight 

To the invisible ether ! Bathed in blue 

Higher he soars again and higher still 

And rests upon the air beyond our sight ; 

Shall the bird's courage shew a higher strain 

Than mine a man's?" Then she: "But he yet, 

sees 

The solid earth below to whose firm rocks 

He can return at will." 

«' True ; then behold 

How the slight swallows take their distant voyage 
8 



114 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Far out of sight of any well-known haunt, 
Led on by God, and after many days 
Coming at their appointed season home ; 
Are not we men of greater value far 
Than many swallows?" 

' * Aye, but that unknown 
Looms larger to our finer faculties ; 
The swallows fear not, they obey the call 
Of natural instinct ; we with reasoning minds 
Look out into the dark and are afraid." 

" Oh, madam, is this world around more dark 
Than that unknown which lies beyond the grave ? 
Do we not see how dark the gates of death. 
Yet gaze beyond them with our inner sight 
To that immense unknown, with cheerful hope ? 
Shall we give such a strong implicit faith 
To that invisible world, yet shrink and fear 
To travel farther on this earth we see ? 
Does not God rule on ocean as on land ? " 
" Indeed," she said, " you are right ; you are one 

of those 
To whom is given the pure and single eye. 
The wise and childlike heart." She left him then, 
Bidding the Lady Joan remain awhile 
To entertain him, who addressed him thus ; 



PALOS DE MOGUER, JEREZ, AND CORDOVA. 115 

" You have a most brave heart, sir, thus to meet 
Our sovereign lady fearless ; did you not 
In the least tremble when you found her here 
Close by you without warning ? " 

" No," he said, 
" She seemed a representative of God, 
Too good and strong to fear. Speaking with her 
Was like a prayer, and all the best I have, 
All the least good that hides within my heart, 
Seemed brought by her to sunshine and new life." 
" But," said Joanna, " will you have no dread 
When you must stand before the learned men, 
Astronomers, cosmographers, divines, 
All of them deeply versed in every knowledge 
Ancient and new, and apt in rhetoric ? 
All the best wisdom of all Spain, and you 
Almost without protection or support ? " 
" I do not know," he answered, " when the time 
Of trial comes no doubt the Lord will give 
Into my heart the words that I must say. 
Do I not work entirely by His will ? 
Then all who are opposed to me are weak, 
Being opposed to Him. I need not fear." 



CANTO VL 

AT SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND 
SEVILLE. 

A T the Collegiate Convent of St. Stephen 

The Conference was assembled. In a hall 
Lighted by many windows straight and high, 
Glowing with pictured glass ; around a board 
Spread with a heavily embroidered cloth ; 
Upon the carved and richly gilded chairs 
Were set the learned men of all the realm ; 
St. Stephen's prior and many of the monks, 
De Deza, college teacher of theology, 
And tutor to Prince Juan ; at their head 
De Talavera learned, gentle, good. 
Inclining not to new or secular things. 
Near the high chimney by the smouldering logs, 
Stood the Grand Cardinal, a tall grave man, 
Pedro Gonzalez de Mendoza called ; 
His dark and fine apparel well became 
Ji6 



AT SAL A MA NCA , CORDOVA , A ND SEVILLE, 117 

His slight and delicate form ; in silken waves 
Below his velvet cap his white hair fell 
Around a pale and lofty countenance. 

Upon Columbus' entrance all arose 
Saluting him in ceremonious silence, 
And gave no further sign ; thus he remained 
Standing, with his rolled papers in his hand, 
Like one awaiting judgment. Then arose 
A murmur of displeasure, and Gonzalez, 
A faint indignant flush upon his cheek, 
Walked gravely down the long hall to Columbus, 
Bowed courteously, and saying, " Honoured guest, 
Whose presence is our honour, welcome here ; 
Come to your rightful place," he led him up 
To sit upon De Talavera's right. 
Who met him with true Spanish courtesy , 
Though veiled indifference, and entreated him 
To set forth for their hearing all his scheme, 
And all the details of his argument. 

Columbus rose, noble his upright form. 
Noble his face, whereon a quiet pride 
Brought a slight red and lighted his grey eyes ; 
His simple raiment seemed to suit him well, 
His close white hair and strong worn countenance. 
De Deza watched him kindly, some looked on 



ii8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

With curious interest, some with hostile scorn. 

For who was this, a seaman, to come forth 

Asserting things forbid by Holy Church 

And unknown to her science ? Who was this, 

A stranger, an Italian, to intrude 

Into the councils of this powerful realm, 

And seek to draw her from her great affairs, 

And take her treasure for fantastic ends ? 

Columbus spread his charts upon the board, 

And compasses in hand began to speak. 

In cold and measured tones at first he spoke, 

For well he knew how little love was there 

For him the stranger, neither of old blood. 

Nor learned in the learning of the schools. 

How little love for generous, daring zeal 

In things unknown and new ; but whilst he spoke. 

And step by step led his great argument, 

The possible future grew so bright and clear 

Before his inward vision, that his words 

Waxed warm and eloquent as of one inspired 

And confident of his hearers ; his eyes flashed 

And his voice rang musical. But whilst he spoke 

Of his great voyage, and how he should attain 

To countries on the far side of the globe — 

Opposed, perhaps, exactly to the spot 



A T SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 119 

Where now they sat consulting — he was met 
With scorn and ridicule. Some heard convinced, 
But others quoted ignorant books of old, 
Writings of times when science was unknown, 
And he must bend to answer. Patient, grave, 
He argued with this superstitious talk, 
Then was accused of heresy and contempt 
For Holy Scripture, which had plainly said 
The earth lay flat beneath the arching skies 
And thus had God created them. 

He said : 
" But Holy Scripture teaches of our souls, 
And of our souls' concerns, not of those things 
That with our natural senses we can learn 
And are left free to learn ; God in His grace 
Has given the means to know, will He forbid 
To use those means and knowledge ? He needs not 
A level earth, a semi-spheral sky. 
To help His love to men ; He can bestow 
His many varied blessings on His sons 
Whether they dwell upon a level plain, 
Or on the sloping surface of a sphere ; 
Salvation for our souls can find our souls 
Wherever in the body we may be. 
Whatever is created, that is God's — 



120 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Howso it is created, that He did — 

Wherever He has placed us, we are His — 

And we may trust His world as we trust Him. 

Can it be possible to take our ships 

Far out of sight of land, and fear no harm 

Though Spain invisible be left behind, 

And Palestine be far beyond our view — 

Yet dangerous and impossible to sail 

As many miles upon the like salt sea 

Straight out from land to westward, for no cause 

But that no man hath done the like before ? 

If on the rounded seas we safely ride 

Within invisible boundaries, need we fear 

To go upon the rounded waters forth, 

Onward and onward till we come again 

To our own continents ? Nor need we fear 

A long and desolate voyage, for it is known 

There lie upon the mid Atlantic seas 

Islands convenient for the seaman's need, 

Antilles and Cipango, rich in gems, 

Wealthy in gold, and furnished well with woods, 

With streams and flocks, shelter and pleasant food. 

Thus we may go refreshed upon our course 

Round to old Asia's shores and fair Cathay, 

The lands by Marco Polo seen, and told 



ATSALA MA NCA , CORDO VA, AND SEVILLE, 121 

In his own book which I myself have read." 
Here once again the storm of ridicule 
And angry opposition broke around 
And he was forced to silence. He remained 
Amidst them as a rock amidst the sea, 
Which neither feels the tossing of the spray, 
Nor yields beneath the onset of large waves 
Beating with blows of iron. But no calm 
Came to the Conference, and they broke up 
No judgment formed, no answer possible. 

In spring the sovereigns travelled south again, 
And Ferdinand led out a mighty force, 
All the best chivalry of Spain, with all 
The newest means of warfare, to besiege 
Velez near Malaga. Columbus stayed 
In Salamanca, hoping yet to win 
Some answer to his suit, and stayed in vain ; 
De Talavera, made a bishop now, 
Cared little for these matters, and was called 
To follow Isabella ; the Grand Cardinal 
Was gone already, and of small avail 
Was it for Christopher to make delay ; 
But he a while delayed for still De Deza 
Remained at Salamanca, and with him 
Columbus spoke much, and a hearty love 



122 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Arose between the two. Thus it fell out 
That when in summer he prepared to leave 
For Cordova, he was summoned to the camp 
Now stretched round Malaga from shore to shore : 
Strong and fair Malaga, of radiant skies 
And life-inspiring air. All things he saw — 
The gorgeous busy camp, with silken tents 
Set for the sovereigns, the rich country round, 
Grape-fields and hills, and mountains crowned with 

snow, 
Abundant glowing flowers, abundant fruits, 
The blue, blue sea — these things expressed the hopes 
That filled his heart when summoned to the 

camp — 
To wait, and fight and see the splendid days 
Of desperate victory ; and still to wait 
And to return to Cordova. 

Whilst he stayed 
In the fair city midst the musical pomp 
Of royal prayers and thanksgiving displays, 
He saw the driving out the conquered Moors, 
Men, women, children, sold to slavery ; 
And he saw also all the mournful troop 
Of hunger-stricken Christians wild and pale, 
Trembling and weeping, scarcely feeling saved. 



ATSALA MA NCA , CORDOVA , A ND SEVILLE. 123 

Amidst these things another noble dame 
Became his friend, the Marchioness of Moya, 
Friend of the queen from girlhood, and the spouse 
Of her true servant Andrea Ferrar — 
And much he owed to her in after years. 
Returning with the court to Cordova, 
Columbus as he slowly rode along 
Turned often in his thoughts to Beatrix, 
Their coming meeting, and his ties to her, 
And often also there arose the thought 
Of Isabella the unblemished queen. 
Thus shame fell on him, and a deep remorse 
Grew in his heart into the stern resolve 
To break those ties, and part from Beatrix. 
Hence, come to Cordova, he made no pause 
But hastened to her with a breaking heart, 
For her the most but also for himself. 
At his first entering she was not there 
But in the neighbouring chamber, where she hid 
Her babe that it might be a glad surprise 
On his returning home ; and as he stood 
She came in suddenly. " My love, my love ! " 
She cried with clinging arms : " Oh, happy hour ! 
Oh, unexpected joy ! " He slowly said, 
** It is a mournful meeting, Beatrix, 



124 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

I have no joy of it nor wilt thou have 

When I have spoken to thee." " Oh, my heart ! " 

She cried, and drew away. " What dost thou say ?" 

" Sit down," he answered, " were I warm and young 

I should kneel to thee in my wild remorse, 

And sob my errand out in burning tears, 

But my remorse is stern and lies too deep 

For passionate show. I own that I am bound 

By natural ties of right, and mutual love, 

To wed thee, Beatrix, yet am I come 

To say it cannot be." She ^aid her hands 

Locked, flat upon her knees, her eyes grew large 

And light with terror, and as set as stone. 

'"T were vain for us to wed, my life belongs 

To my great undertakings ; house nor home 

Have I to give thee nor the centred love 

A tender husband should. Yea, I am called 

Am bound as much to live a celibate 

As any shaven, dedicated monk. 

'T is God himself has called me, and in sin 

Oh, Beatrix, not even for love's sake 

Would we remain. We two have deeply sinned, 

And we must both repent." She, with white lips : 

" Yes, we have sinned, we will repent ; I bow 

My neck to meet the blow. Heroes of old 



A T SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 195 

When they set forth on some great enterprise 

Were wont to shed propitiatory blood ; 

I am thy lamb of sacrifice. But go, 

Be quick, let the blow fall at once." 

"Poor, tender lamb," he said, " Oh, sacrifice, 

Unblessing and unblessed ! When I shall see 

In some far-off and slow approaching time 

My life's reward before me, I shall feel 

I go to meet it right across thy heart." 

He laid his hands upon her head, then bent 

And kissed her brow : ' * For thy dear love God 

bless thee, 
And on thy death-bed, if thou canst, forgive." 
Then turning, stern in sorrowful shame, he went 
Forth from her face forever. She remained 
Listening, and heard his steps to the stair-head 
And down the staircase and across the court 
And in the street — then silence. Then she knelt, 
And threw herself along the floor, and cried 
" Poor, tender lamb indeed ! Weak, trusting heart ! 
But yet as proud as any crowned queen ! 
Now am I left, and I must rear my babe 
In bitter shame, but shame less bitter far 
Than be a wife unwished-for, and endured ! 
He knew not of the babe, nor never shall, 



126 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Nor never shall he meet me face to face. 
Oh, God be with him whereso'er he goes ! 
And if I cannot yet forgive, I pray 
God bless his goings out, his comings in, 
Bless him by day and night, in life and death, 
And oh, may God forgive him, I can not." 

Close upon this came De Arana home 
From a long absence ; Beatrix had gone 
For shelter to a convent, and he went 
To Christopher in great wrath, and told him all. 
Then sad days followed ; Christopher in vain 
Wrote long and sorrowful letters full of prayers 
That Beatrix would see him once again 
And let him speak ; she would not see him more. 
She would not read his letters nor receive them. 
Then through her brother urgently he prayed. 
That she would set his former words aside 
And be his honoured and beloved wife. 
But when her brother came back, in his arms 
Bearing the infant, thus he spoke her mind : 
" She says she will not listen to your prayer. 
She will not marry with you to be left 
A sad deserted wife, nor will she wed 
To have your company by keeping you 
From your own course, long chosen, long pursued, 



A T SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 127 

And know you ever longing, ever sad, 
Until perhaps you hate her in your heart. 
But this she asks, to keep the boy with her, 
To breed him up in nobleness and truth. 
And in the love and honour of your name. 
Till he be fit for a man's stronger hand." 
Columbus then : ' ' For her sake and for his 
Let him go back to her — and for my own. 
For even this small atonement is again 
To take from her far more than I can give. 
My sin is very great ! She trusted me 
With her whole heart, and I — 1 knew too well 
I could not love again with my old love 
Nor give another wife the inner place 
And foremost in my thoughts. I knew I stood 
Pledged hand to foot to go on with my work. 
Nor for long years if ever more, might find 
A home, and take a wife to make it blessed. 
My sin is very great ! God will requite her. 
For henceforth to my last days I shall bear 
The sting of my injustice in my soul." 
He ceased, and bowed his head upon his arms. 
Then added, " I will send from time to time 
Such monies as they need." He ceased again, 
And De Arana went out with the child. 



128 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

About this time Columbus waited long 
Some tidings from the sovereigns, and meanwhile 
Took up his former avocations, worked 
Hard for his living, and trained up his son. 
He heard from Genoa long-expected news 
Of his old father's death, also from Sagres 
That his good friend Sebastian was no more ; 
Bartholomew with Diaz had gone forth 
Down the west coast of Africa ; Diego 
Worked for his bread at Genoa. In his cares 
His son was his companion and dear friend ; 
But one day waxing listless, he went forth 
To muse alone and sauntering slowly on 
Along the city's massive, mud-piled walls 
He looked across the plains so lately shorn 
Of their abundant harvest, and his thoughts 
Filled with the memories of the days of old, 
His college life, the long bridge at Pavia, 
And the wide-spreading corn fields, and he said : 
" Ah, now as then I weary of the land ! 
The city life is like a darkening mist, 
The soil has no kind pressure to my foot, 
The trees become to me as prison-bars, 
And often through the night in sleep I hear 
The wild free sea-winds and the wash of waves. 



AT SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 129 

Sore, sore it is, this sickness of the soul." 

Then wandering farther he came near the gate 

Leading out to Placentia, by the palms. 

" How fair and straight they rise, above my head 

Hanging their arching feathers ! It is said 

The first of these were set here by the hand 

Of the first Moslem king, who brought the plants 

From his far native Syria. There have passed 

Seven hundred years since they were reared with 

care, 

That he might sit beneath their shade at noon, 

And listen with closed eyelids till the airs 

Soft stirring in the rustling fronds would seem 

A whisper from Damascus — or at morn. 

When rising sunlight filled the tender green. 

Think that he woke in Syria. And to me 

Old dreams are murmuring in these swaying leaves : 

The burning Syrian plains, the flashing arms 

Of Frank and Saracen, of eager hearts 

Pouring their best blood freely to win back 

Christ's venerated tomb from Paynim hands. 

Ah, Genova, Genova ! not for thee alone 

In the old boyish days I yearned and dreamed, 

My hilly city standing by the sea ; 

For Zion also on her Hills of praise, 
9 



I30 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Her hills of solemn sadness, where she wept 
Above the Holy Tomb. Still do her foes 
Oppress her, still her sorrows cry for help — 
Does no king turn to hearken ? Does none keep 
For her his weapons ready ? The strong thrill 
Of my old longing dies not in my heart. 
Hope, O Jerusalem ! till the years fulfil 
Their lingering promises, and from the West 
I bring my vessels freighted with the gold 
Of ancient Ophir. Then I shall lead forth 
A mighty armament, a new crusade 
To win thy heights, and scatter far and wide 
Thy enemies and oppressors. Then shall rise 
Over the tomb beloved a carven roof 
Wondrous in beauty ; and where stood of old 
The Temple in its splendour, shall be built 
Another Temple, like the first to shine 
Gold-roofed before the morning, seen afar 
More glorious than the sun-rise, and Christ's name 
Will sanctify its glory. But not now, 
Now Christ Himself has set another task 
And for His love I spend my eager heart 
In idle waiting, and my golden years 
Are spilt like water on the desert sands." 



A T SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 131 

The long weeks passed, slow waned the year's 

last days 
When Diaz came from his great southern voyage 
To Lisbon home, and thence Bartholomew 
Wrote to his brother all their history. 
How they had gone to Guinea to explore 
The westward country, and continuing south, 
Passed through the burning zone, and onward 

sailed 
Through cooler temperatures along a coast 
Sandy and flat and barren, without sign 
Of bay or harbour, till their weary eyes 
Craved for some rocky point or cliff-bound shore 
Though sentinelled by breakers ; how at last 
The coast became more rugged, and the air 
Subject to sudden ever-changing winds 
Through which they tacked on wide divergent lines, 
Till one day, beating eastward, through the mists 
Which rolled ahead, they saw a mighty cliff 
Raising its straight horizon to the sky, 
And knew it for the uttermost south point — 
The extreme end of Africa — that cape 
Whereof King John was long ago informed 
By his own messengers, who had explored 



132 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

For him the eastern coast. In joy and awe 

They upward gazed upon the wall-like rock, 

Ascending sheer at least two thousand feet 

Above the fiercer congregated storms 

Around it ever raging, which forbade 

All further progress. Hence did Mendez name 

That place the Cape of Tempests, but King John 

Looking beyond the narrow present time 

Gave it for name the Cape of Hope and Promise, 

For he declared the way was open now 

To navigate the south route to the East, 

And before long, no doubt but his good seamen 

Would hold their own against whatever storms 

The waves or heavens could furnish. Then went on 

Bartholomew : " Brother, hadst thou been chief 

Instead of Mendez, we had made our way 

Past every danger, and triumphant borne 

The flag of Portugal through the Indian seas." 

Columbus read this letter with great joy. 
All his old liking for the zealous king 
Rose up within him, and he wrote at once 
To ask his mind about the western route, 
And if he would not now hold out his hand 
To bring him back, and give him hearty aid 
And win both ocean highways round the world 



A T SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 133 

For Portugal alone. King John replied 

With cordial invitation to his court ; 

The King of England also at this time 

Prayed, in a letter writ with his own hand, 

A visit from him — for Bartholomew 

Had gone to England bearing to the king 

The map Columbus gave into his charge 

So many years ago, and had displayed 

His brother's mind and aims. But neither king 

Gave clear pledge of assistance, and once more 

The Spanish sovereigns bade him soon expect 

Some final treaty, and with liberal hand 

Provided for his journeyings to and fro 

And waiting on their leisure. Thus three years 

Went by in the old fashion : king and queen 

Still making promises of speedy aid. 

Still swept away by many great affairs 

Quick following each on each — domestic wars, 

Marriage of children, business of the realm, 

Administering of navies on the seas. 

Both on the ocean and the midland sea ; 

And ever like a river running on 

Through all else, the hard warfare with the Moors ; 

As when to sturdy Baza they laid siege 

Through six months' hard resistance, and Columbus 



134 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Served them in arms, a soldier good and true. 

Through all Columbus waited, through all hoped 
Firm and courageous for a better day 
When pause should come from festivals and wars, 
But ever hoped in vain. De Talavera 
Had no love for those fanciful, vague dreams ; 
Earnest in present action, and for ends 
To him, a churchman, of far higher worth, 
He put aside the task continually. 
Nor called the Conference to meet again. 

Columbus waited on with weary heart 
At Cordova, where his son Diego lodged — 
Now a tall youth and daily at the schools 
A sedulous student — when the king and queen 
Prepared with all their gathered energy 
For the one last great effort, the last siege 
Of the whole war, that with the victory 
Over Granada — citadel and palace, 
Metropolis and home, and last resort, 
Of the Moresco kings — would end the strife. 
Columbus knowing well how long and hard 
That noble city might resist, once more 
Wrote to their majesties, claiming quick reply. 
Insisting on his absolute right to know 
On what terms they would help him to his voyage. 



AT SAL A MA NCA , CORDOVA , A ND SEVILLE. 135 

Then as before the Conference was called, 
And as before declared the whole scheme vain, 
And Christopher Columbus a vain dreamer 
Asking rewards no sane man would conceive. 
But still the good friends that he had at court 
And some few members of the learned Junto, 
By their persuasions gained thus much for him, 
That the reply the Conference had made 
Should not be final, but that when the siege 
Was well concluded and the Moors expelled, 
Their majesties would instant send for him, 
And enter into treaty for his scheme. 

Now Christopher's sore heart could not receive 
This answer through another, and he went 
At once to Seville to inquire himself, 
To ask from the two sovereigns face to face 
If this were all the answer they would give ; 
And when they told him it was even so, 
This message was thei^ message — silent, cold. 
He went out from their presence. Passing on 
From one great antechamber to another. 
With rich carved work and tapestries adorned, 
Or crimson leather hangings tooled and gilt. 
And looking out upon the marble courts 
Where orange-trees and light pomegranates stood 



136 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

By fretted arch and slender colonnade, 

He found De Talavera, in a group 

Of noblemen and ladies amongst whom 

Was the queen's friend, the Marchioness of Moya, 

And he was saying : " One would think him mad ! 

How should a low-born Genoese assume 

A right to seek the presence of the queen ? 

Who is he, to refuse to take from me 

The royal message ? What is he, to urge 

Such personal importance with the sovereigns 

That they must answer him with their own lips ? 

And answer what ? Such wild fantastic schemes 

As might inflame a dreaming schoolboy's brain, 

Who slights his proper task to feed his mind 

With fanciful legends and ingenious tales 

Pretending to be worthy all belief 

As records of true travel, Marco Polo 

Being the wildest dreamer of them all. 

For such things to disturb her majesty ! 

He has lost all discretion, he is mad ! " 

Then Christopher made pause as he passed by : 
" Do you, my lord, then measure a man's wit 
Only by that you do yourself approve ? 
Is all that lies outside of your own thought 
But madness? I am well used to the charge. 



A T SALAMANCA, CORDOVA, AND SEVILLE. 137 

The little children mock me in the street, 

Touching their foreheads with a glance at me ; 

'T is older tongues have taught them, and I think 

I must be mad to linger here despised. 

Deluded, slighted. If so, 't is my heart 

That goes aside from reason, that has set 

Its deep, devoted trust upon a queen, 

Not queen alone by crown and sceptred hand. 

But a most sovereign woman, unsurpassed 

In every virtue ! 'T is my heart has borne 

For her these scorns, these heartburnings, this waste 

Of my good years in waiting. To serve her 

Was my intent, to bring to her the glory 

Of my great voyage fulfilled, to honour her 

Who has been ever royally good to me 

And from her loftiness has cheered my life 

Like a kind summer day, and led me on 

To a yet stronger confidence in myself 

And in the greatness of my enterprise. 

Would I for any other have refused 

The offers of King John of Portugal ? 

Or have stayed here when favour waited me 

In France and England ? When I came to Spain, 

I waited two years on your noble Dukes 

De Guzman and la Cerda. Promised then 



138 CHRONICLES OP CHRISTOPHER COLUMBVS. 

Vessels sufficient, good ships by La Cerda. 

Just at the very moment of success — 

"When in a few weeks or days I might have sailed — 

He drew his promise back that I might give 

My projects to Castile. Five years ago ! 

And I am here still waiting on Castile. 

I made myself at heart a son of Spain, 

Have carried arms with honour in her wars, 

Have gone where I was summoned, and have borne 

Repulses many, oft have lost the time 

And opportunity of needful work 

For my sons' sustenance ; but for help of friends 

The boys had lived untaught, and barely fed ; 

Yet worse than this, the golden hours fly fast. 

And before long adventurous Portugal 

Will win the East round Afric's stormy cape. 

And she, or other nation of swift foot. 

Will cross before me to the sunset shores 

Which half my life have drawn me as the moon 

Leads the tides after her. I am not mad 

Except in lingering here, and now I go 

With freshly glowing hopes to other lands." 

Then bowing with cold courtesy, he went 

So quickly none could stay him. There ensued 

A silence, then the Marchioness exclaimed : 



AT SALA MA NCA , CORDOVA , AND SE VILLE. 139 

* ' Was ever man so steadfast and so brave ! 

Spain does but ill to lose him from her soil. 

I knevi^ him first at Malaga years ago, 

And ever as my knowledge of him grew^, 

Regard and admiration likevi^ise grew, 

And a great kindness towards him. He is good, 

Of noble heart, of an unflinching will, 

Under injustice self-sustained and calm ; 

And of imagination glowing, grand. 

If I were you, my Lord de Talavera, 

I should have prized and cared for this great man 

As a rich jewel for my sovereign's crown ; 

We may repent some day that we have lost him." 



CANTO VII, 

AT PALOS DE MOGUER, GRANADA, AND 
DEPARTURE. 

UROM Seville back to Cordova, in haste 

Columbus came ; he took a long farewell 
Of his good son Diego, brought away 
Little Fernando not yet four years old. 
Thinking to lodge him with his friends at Huelva, 
And set his face in earnest to leave Spain 
And seek in France a surer, readier aid. 

To Palos de Moguer he bent his course, 
Expecting then at Huelva to get news 
Of De Arana's brother, in whose care 
He had it in his mind to leave his son. 
Arriving at the convent on the hill, 
Deeply the prior was troubled by their news ; 
Much grave discourse they held ; the prior's 

friend, 
Garcia Fernandez, a wise leech of Palos, 
140 



AT PALOS DE MOGUER A ND GRA NA DA . 141 

Came up to hear the stranger's marvellous scheme, 
To him as wise as marvellous, and next day 
Martin Pinzon was brought, his fellow-townsman, 
Greatly renowned, amongst a race renowned 
For daring seamanship, for worth and skill — 
Who also listened, thoughtful and convinced. 
These and some others from the little port 
Came often to the convent and would sit 
Late into midnight in their earnest talk. 
Unwilling were they all, and most the prior, 
That Spain should lose the project, and he 

prayed 
Columbus to remain, whilst he should write 
To Isabella, praying, urging her 
Not to forego this glory for her crown ; 
Pinzon besought him, and with open hand 
Offered the cost of this renewed delay, 
Of messengers and journeys to the court, — 
And Christopher, not unwilling, was convinced. 
Perez prepared his letters, and they chose 
For messenger a pilot of the coast 
Well known for faithful service, skilled and brave, 
By name Rodriguez. Willingly he went 
Upon this errand, for he, like the rest, 
Loved and revered the great adventurer. 



142 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

'T was strange to him, who scarcely in his life 
Had travelled so far inland as to lose 
Sight of the open sea, to journey on 
Some seven score miles and never hear the tide, 
Nor see the foaming billows, or brown mists 
Banked on the far horizon. Not at Seville 
"Was the court stationed, but amidst the camp 
Before Granada, where the good queen's wish 
Had newly raised a city on the plain 
That through the siege due order might be kept 
And all the army and the numerous court 
Find lodging suitable. Her people's love 
Wished it should bear her name, but she would 

not, 
And in her modest and religious thought 
Christened it Santa Fe. 

Towards this place 
Through the wide valley of Granada rode 
Rodriguez ; far off shone the snow-topped heights 
Of the Nevada's long and lofty range. 
Descending in ravines and rocky woods 
Of pine and oak and chestnut ; far below 
Olive and sugar-cane and fan-leaved palm, 
Aloe and cactus, and such glowing fruits 
And gorgeous flowering-trees as brought to mind 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA. 143 

The southern islands and their spicy scents — 

Filled plain and grove and the soft autumn air 

With joy and wonder ; by light-springing mosque 

Or cheerful village, sparkling fountains sang, 

The birds not less rejoicing clamour made, 

The rivers rippled, and no mournful tones 

Or breaking roar of ocean waves were heard. 

Along this lovely plain he travelled on, 

Beheld at last the roofs of Santa Fe, 

And over these, queenly and arrogant 

Granada, seated on her rocky hills 

And spreading down amongst them. Red and 

square 
The towers that rose above her to the south, 
Threatening and gloomy, strong for long defence, 
He knew for the Alhambra ; not a sign 
Was on their outer walls of all the grace, 
The loveliness and luxury, the costly art 
That they enclosed — as on the uncouth lips 
Of some harsh featured minstrel dwells the song. 

The simple pilot, brought before the queen, 
Delivered up his missives ; these were read 
By her in wonder, and her spirit turned 
Kindly and full of reverence to the thought 
Of the good Perez who had watched so well 



144 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

With fatherly kindness over her young soul, 

And she sent answer praying him to come 

At once to Santa Fe, for open speech 

On all these matters with the king and her. 

Patiently in the convent by the sea 

Columbus waited ; many weeks went by 

Before there came a summons from the queen, 

And therewith her own promise, and the king's, 

That they would take the enterprise in hand, 

Furnish the needful means without delay. 

Monies, and ships, and men, and send him forth. 

Also the queen sent for his comfort gold, 

That he might buy himself a goodly mule 

To travel as became him, and attire 

Suitable to her presence ; so he went, 

Deeply resolved that this time was the last, 

Yet full of hope once more ; with the good friars 

He left Fernando, and went forth alone. 

About midwinter, in that gracious plain 
Of Andalusia, where no wintry cold 
Or fiercest summer heats are ever known — 
The Vega of Granada — on one day, 
The second of the year, in mournful pomp 
The proud old Moorish city yielded up 
Her keys, and opened wide her carven gates 



AT PALOS DE MOGUER A ND GRA NA DA. 145 

To her great conquerors, and Columbus stood 

Nigh to her gates and watched. First entered in 

Gonzalez de Mendoza, the Grand Cardinal, 

With him a troop of grey-haired veterans 

Who had borne arms in all the Moorish wars, 

And thus were chosen as by natural right 

To take possession of the citadel, 

The Watch-tower of the Alhambra. On the plain 

Not far outside the walls, the king and queen 

Waited in state : set upon noble steeds, 

Nigh to the river Genii they were placed. 

Themselves in richest armour, and their steeds 

In gold-embroidered trappings ; far around. 

Their court, their nobles, and their army shone 

Resplendent in accoutrements of war 

And festive habits ; underneath some trees 

An altar stood, and priests. Silent all watched 

Whilst the Grand Cardinal and his chosen troop 

Wound slowly up the city, and until 

In melancholy state the Moorish prince 

Before his household guard rode slowly forth 

Carrying the city keys. Come to the king 

He would have left his horse, to give them kneeling. 

But Ferdinand would not that a vanquished foe, 

A king, should be so humbled, and he brought 



146 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

His own horse close to that of Boabdil, 

And so received the keys. Still silently 

The Moorish prince saluted him, rode on 

To pay like reverence to the queen, and passed 

Through all the silent army to that hill 

Whence he looked back to weep his bitter tears 

For lost Granada. When the Moors had passed, 

The queen rode close to Ferdinand, and they sat 

Speechless, and the great multitude was hushed, 

All gazing on the Alhambra. Just at noon, 

Upon the great red Watch-tower sudden gleamed, 

Beneath the mid-day sun a silver star. 

The mighty Crucifix, whose solemn light 

In every city conquered from the Moors 

Had led the entrance of King Ferdinand, 

Now by the hand of the Grand Cardinal 

Set up in sign of victory ; lower waved 

The banners of Castile and Arragon. 

Then sank the whole great host upon their 
knees, 
The queen's glad eyes turned to her royal spouse, 
The priests loud sang the ancient hymn of praise, 
Te Deum Laudamus, the High Mass 
Was solemnly performed, and then burst forth 
From the uprising people with one voice : 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA. 147 

'* Glory, glory, glory, 
Glory to God in the highest ; 
The Lord God of Sabaoth, 
The Lord strong and mighty, 
The Lord mighty in battle." 

And the whole host, led by the king and queen, 
Moved slowly up, and singing as they went 
Into the queenly city, by the ways 
The least frequented, that the conquered folk 
Might shun their conquerors. Beneath the trees 
Where he had stood, Columbus still remained. 
And watched the king and queen ride stately 

through 
Granada's open gates, and all the press 
Of people following. " Great their lot," he said, 
" Solemn and great, for ten years they have striven, 
And now they enter in to their desire 
And drink the full cup of a lofty joy. 
I twenty years have striven, have watched and 

toiled — 
Shall not I also consummate my life 
As they have done ? and some day drink a cup 
As full and richly crowned ? They in their prime, 
I in the fading autumn of my years." 



148 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

A month had passed, and in the royal tent 
At Santa Fe, before the king and queen 
And a small council of their trusted friends, 
Columbus stood. He had been summoned there 
And they were met, with full intent to make 
An end of indecision, to accept 
On some terms his proposals, and to frame 
The final treaty between Spain and him. 
He had argued once again the wealth and fame 
His enterprise should bring ; he had let loose 
His fancy in poetic thought and phrase 
Of all the unknown beauty he should find ; 
Then, his heart swelhng with his deep desire 
That all the world should come to the true Faith, 
He broke out full of passion : " Oh, my queen ! 
You have given blood like water, gold and blood 
To drive out from your land the Infidel, 
You have spared neither time nor weariness. 
Nor your best thought and fervour of your soul, 
To bring the Moslem scorners in to Christ — 
And the Most High has blessed yovir offering : 
Will you not give the little that I ask, 
A few ships and perhaps a hundred men. 
To win whole nations into the great fold ? 
And to bring treasure back that shall ensure 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA. 149 

An absolute victory in the Holy Land ? 

Madam, your heart is tender, and your soul 

Full of religion — from this Santa Fe, 

In sight of yonder silver crucifix, — 

Spare not to carry further your good work ; 

Nor having done such great and holy things 

Rest as contented, when yet further heights 

Of sacred enterprise beseech your feet. 

Madam, and you, O king, the Catholic, 

I vow the cost of the whole armament 

That shall be needed for the Holy Land, 

To rescue and to keep for evermore 

The sacred places of our one true Faith, 

If you will aid me now." He paused, his cheek 

Glowed, and his eyes were kindled. The king 

said : 
" Our heart is with your scheme, but your de- 
mands 
For power and rule over those lands you seek 
Are too extreme. Yet, let us hear again 
The utmost of your claim." 

Columbus then : 
** I claim, O sovereign, you to represent 
As absolute vice-ruler everywhere 
That I shall make discoveries of lands — 



ISO CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, 

Or smallest island or wide continent — 

Westward, or north, or south, and there to rule 

As viceroy, answerable but to you. 

To my life's end ; and after me my sons, 

And my sons' sons in regular descent, 

So long as one male heir remains to me ; 

And I to bear the title ' Admiral ' ; 

And my sons also to my latest heir ; 

And I to take one-tenth of all I find, 

Silver, or gold, or pearls, or precious stones. 

Spices, or other products of the soil. 

And every sort and kind of merchandise ; 

And all this clear of cost : and since my foes 

Have made base accusations, and a mock 

Of my demands, saying I seek to take 

Advantage only not to share the cost, 

I shall have right to furnish one-eighth part 

Of whatsoever my first voyage may cost 

For its complete providing. This I ask, 

O king and queen, and less I will not take." 

The king leaned back with gesture quick and 

proud : 
*' It is too mlich, sir, you demand too much." 
The queen looked troubled, and De Talavera 
Came quickly forward, speaking ere she spoke : 



AT PALOS DE MOGUER A ND GRA NADA. 151 

'* It is too much, sir, I must plainly say 
Your terms are arrogant, your ambition swells 
Large as a king's." 

" And well," Columbus said, 
*' For my success will be a king's, my place 
No lower than a sovereign's. Who or makes 
Or finds a kingdom must be lord therein." 
Then Ferdinand : " You have, sir, ended all. 
We were well-minded towards you, but you ask 
More than beseems us to admit or grant. 
The queen herself will answer for Castile 
With her own royal lips." De Talavera 
Again spoke quickly : " Madam, I entreat, 
Listen no more. The Church herself has given 
To Spain her rights beyond a certain line, 
A certain longitude, not to be given away 
Lightly to other powers. The Church alone 
Can transfer make into an alien's hands 
Of even vice-regal rule. So far away, 
Across those seas uncertain of return, 
Such powers will be as absolute. O madam, 
Unless it were Pope Gregory's own desire — 
And we may guess his mind — you may not use 
Your royal privilege to cast away 
That very privilege — believe me so." 



152 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Then to Columbus slowly spoke the queen : 
" The Church is more than I. This cannot be 
If you demand so much." A moment then 
Columbus stood, pale to the lips, then said : 
** Madam, farewell. For all your courtesies, 
And all the kindnesses that you have done me 
Out of your bounteous heart and your benignity, 
I shall be ever grateful, nor forget 
You nor your goodness ever." Then he knelt 
And kissed her robes, and rose : " My queen, fare- 
well. 
King Ferdinand, farewell. To each beside 
Who has thought kindly of me, who has been 
Good to me as a friend — I bid farewell." 
He bowed his head in greeting to them all, 
And left the presence with firm, resolute steps. 

The queen rose up, and with her face hard set, 
Signified all should leave her, nor speak more 
Upon the matter to her ; all went out 
Except the king, and he and she remained 
Engaged in their state business many hours. 
Then also went King Ferdinand ; and then 
De Deza came, and boldly entered in, 
Bringing St. Angel and the Marchioness, 
And falling on his knees before the queen, 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA. 153 

" Madam," he cried, " even now Columbus goes, 

Even now is setting forth upon his way 

To France with all his plans. Hear us, O queen ! 

O Marchioness of Moya, speak to her ! 

She will forgive you all." And as he rose 

The lady knelt at Isabella's feet : 

" Madam, my queen, forgive — what shall repair 

Your loss in this great man if now he go ? 

See his firm trust, his noble confidence 

In his great voyage, the thought of many years ! 

No sudden flash of fancy, but conceived 

First in his youth and slowly brought to shape 

In years of patient musing and research, 

And through a rough experience of life 

And common things, as well as lofty thoughts 

And profound learning in the natural world. 

He is no cloistered dreamer, to lay out 

Business and work for other men to do, 

He carries out himself his own intent, 

And in entire good faith he undertakes 

The burden and the dangers of his schemes ; 

Nor claims reward, should his adventure fail, 

For toil and dangers borne, for his lost years." 

De Deza spoke again : " Madam, behold 

The great rejoicings through all Christendom 



154 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

For your late consummated victories ! 

For driving out of heathen ! How much more 

Will Christendom rejoice for bringing in 

Of perishing souls, and victories obtained 

In lands that Satan surely deems his own." 

He scarcely ceased before St. Angel spoke : 

(King Ferdinand's Receiver of Revenue) 

" My sovereign lady ! It is no small good 

That now is slipping from you. To all time 

Your realm will be enriched and your bright crown 

More gloriously bright, if this man win 

And you have kept the adventure in your hand, 

And helping him have made it as your own. 

See how the sway of Portugal extends, 

And well we know that France and England yearn 

For like increase of country and renown. 

How small your risk in sending those few ships 

To bear your sceptre to such distant bounds, 

That on your realm the sun shall never set ; 

Your sceptre and your rule of gentleness, 

The effluence of your crown that radiates good 

And is a benefaction to all lands 

Whereon it gracious shines. Madam, indeed 

This man is right, and you have sent him hence 

With his free hand that kept the best for you, 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA. 155 

And his warm heart that worthy service gave, 
And offered such adornments for your crown 
As were not brought to any queen before : 
Shall he go forth from Spain ? " The queen rose 

up, 
And stretching out her hands said : " Bring him 

back. 
Not one ounce have I in my treasury, 
But I will pledge the jewels of the crown 
For this great enterprise ; it is the Lord's. 
Go, bring Columbus back." St. Angel then 
Assured her of the necessary sums 
As loans from Ferdinand. " Go, quick," she said, 
' ' Seek out Columbus, bring him here at once, 
Let not his sore heart wait." De Deza went 
Joyful to seek him, but he went too late, 
Columbus had been seen to mount in haste 
And ride out on the road to Cordova. 
" Fetch me a courier," the queen exclaimed, 
** To bring him back. Let someone mount and 

ride 
The swiftest horse I have." Then De Ojeda, 
A gallant youth, cried out, " O gracious queen, 
Make me your courier, for I love Columbus, 
And I am famed for horsemanship." 



156 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

" Then go 
With your best swiftness. Take my signet ring, 
And tell him I agree to all his terms, 
I grant him absolutely all he asks." 
'* Madam, with joy. It now must be two hours 
Since he set out, but I will bring him back 
At twice the speed he went at." 

The young man 
Dashed on his errand gaily ; he rode well 
And two leagues out from Santa Fe beheld 
Upon the bridge of Pinos, in the pass 
Amidst the hills, Columbus, who rode on 
And would not turn his head, though well he 

guessed 
Some hint it was or compromise, that made 
Those horse's feet come ringing on the road 
So fast behind him. De Ojeda spurred 
Close to Columbus : " Stay, I bring you word 
Even from her majesty ; she bids you turn 
To speak with her again." Then did Columbus 
Draw up his mule, and to the messenger : 
*' I will not turn one step, it is too late 
For further speech. Six years is long enough 
For full investigations ; is enough 
For patience and submission. I have done 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA . 157 

With my attendance on De Talavera 

Although he be Archbishop of Granada, 

And more, the queen's confessor. I have laid 

Before her feet such offers as come once 

To pope or queen, or in the world at all, 

And I have been kept waiting all these years 

And now I am refused my just demands. 

Go to, you mock me with your message." 

He turned with settled face, and urged the mule 

Again upon her way. " See," cried the youth, 

An anxious haste upon his glowing brow, 

" See the queen's signet ring. She bids me say 

That she accepts your terms, she grants you 

all." 
" All ? " said Columbus. "Do not mock me, sir, 
You are young and eager, you have been misled." 
" Upon my soul those are her very words, — 
Besides, here is her ring." Columbus then, 
Taking the ring looked at it earnestly, 
And a faint light crept over his grave face ; 
He put it in his bosom and looked round 
On his companion, turned his mule again 
To Santa Fe, and said : " She is alone 
A safe, sure anchorage in yon wavering sea 
Of priests and courtiers," To Ojeda then ; 



158 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

"You have brought good news, young sir, some 

day perhaps 
You will go farther with me than this ride 
Of two leagues in the Vega ? " A quick smile 
Lit the dark, handsome face of the young man : 
** I wish no better luck, when you have reached 
Your distant continents. At sail or oar 
I am nothing, but when fighting is your need, 
A fiery steed, a good Toledo blade, 
Dangers of any kind in any land, 
None readier to go with you, sir, than I." 

At Santa Fe in April of that year, 
Was signed a solemn treaty by the sovereigns 
With Christopher Columbus, granting all 
That he in his ambition's proudest thought 
Had ever dreamed of ; and when May set in, 
He made his parting charged with fullest powers 
To take in Palos ships, and men, and stores — 
And set forth for the coast. Now joy indeed 
Rang in his step when to the convent gate 
Upon the hills by Palos de Moguer 
He came, and meeting there his little son, 
Him with such hearty vigour did embrace 
That the child shouted ; but not idle joy, 
Incessant trouble, waited on his steps, 



AT PA LOS DE MOGUER AND GRANADA. 159 

And only a strong heart might overcome. 

Upon the morrow's morn, Pe'rez and he 
Went down to Palos : At St. George's Church, 
The old church overlooking the long street 
Down to the river-side, they met the alcalde ; 
And before him and certain registrars. 
And the chief townsfolk summoned there to hear, 
The public notary, standing in the porch 
Beside Columbus, Perez, and Pinzon, 
In a loud voice read out the royal mandate : — 
That in a ten days' space three caravels 
Should be appointed to the Admiral, 
And with their full crews and their needful stores. 
Should ride prepared beside the Bar of Saltes ; 
And that sufficient men should be compelled 
By force to join, if willing hands enough 
Should not come forward. 

Abject terror fell 
On most hearts there ; the brave sea-faring folk 
Ready and bold on their accustomed ways, 
Trembled before an unknown, pathless sea, 
Haunted by ghost and devil, serpents huge, 
The ghostly Hand, storms of some unknown kind, 
And lands, if lands there were there, populous 
With every sort of hideous savage beast. 



i6o CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Columbus and the royal officer 
Sent to assist him, toiling day by day, 
Urged and persuaded vainly ; the Pinzons, 
Talking and promising had no better luck, 
And only by the strong hand of the law, 
And after weeks and weeks of ceaseless toil. 
Were the three ships assembled and their crews. 
Of these the largest ship was the St. Mary, 
Decked over prow to stern, at her mast-head 
Carrying the Admiral's flag ; the Pinta next 
Commanded by Pinzon ; the Nina last 
Small and felucca-rigged, Pinzon the younger 
Being her captain ; and on these two ships 
At prow and stern alone the cabins rose. 
Poop and forecastle called. Of mariners 
The three crews counted ninety ; pilots there were, 
Sagacious and well-practised ; De Arana, 
Cousin of Pedro, as chief alguazil ; 
A leech, a notary, a surgeon ; the three captains ; 
Servants, adventurers ; which made in all 
One hundred and one score of living souls. 
By August all was ready, and Columbus 
Upon the second morning of the month 
By Juan Perez was confessed and shriven ; 
Then with his officers and all his men, 



A T PALOS DE MOGUER AND GRANA DA . i6i 

Having like him a good confession made, 

Went to St. George's church, and there received 

From the priest's hands the consecrated bread ; 

Thus to be reassured and win from heaven 

A blessing on their solemn enterprise. 

The day was passed in turmoil, men and boys, 

Helped by their friends, continually escaped 

And well-concealed were hardly caught again ; 

And when at vesper-bell all went on board 

Columbus sternly ordered off all boats 

Of friends who came for last adieus and tears, 

And without more ado put off at once 

For Saltes, and there anchored till the dawn. 

For the tide served at dawn. All through the 

night 
The troubled townsfolk watched upon the shore, 
Weeping and praying, and from time to time 
Some small boat followed softly to the ships 
For secret farewells, or perchance to give 
Means of escape to some of those on board. 

It was a dark night, and a threatening wind 
Rose, bringing heavy clouds. It wanted still 
An hour to sunrise when the Admiral 
Gave orders to weigh anchor ; then began 
The creaking of the cables as they worked 



i62 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, 

Slow through the blocks and brought the anchors 

home ; 
The long oars swept the stream with steady strokes, 
The caravels moved slowly down the Bar, 
Columbus first. He standing on the poop 
Watching, directing, chanced to turn his eyes 
On the faint dawn behind the long low line 
Of eastern mountains, and it brought to mind 
How he stood musing at his father's door 
That April night at Genoa, long ago, 
Watching the dawn and sunrise, when there rose 
The first faint prophecy of this very hour 
Into his mind, that now was come to pass. 
But now no nightingale's loud singing fired 
His soul with courage ; all the sounds he heard 
Were distant lamentation, hopeless grief, 
Shouting and oaths of seamen ; waters, wind ; 
Nor did the gathering of the morning light 
Come round about him, but in darkness lay 
His course towards the darkness ; in his heart 
A silent grief at parting from his sons : 
But the ships left the river, sails were spread 
And tightened in the breeze ; the curving prows 
Cut through the water, and the hissing foam 
Flew up and danced upon the open sea ; 



AT PA LOS DE MOGUER A ND GRA NA DA . 163 

He felt the waves beneath him, and there shone 
A kind of solemn peace upon his brow. 

So went Columbus forth like one unknown 
On his great enterprise, and when the sun 
Rising in clouds cast dull light on the sea. 
To those who watched, whose strained eyes saw the 

ships 
Afar off, ever lessening to the sight, 
They seemed like obstinate and forsaken souls 
Taking their own way to eternal death. 



CANTO VIII. 

HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 

OENEATH grey clouds, across a heaving sea, 
Did Christopher Columbus guide his ships 
South-west and south, and towards the seven isles, 
The sister islands of the Atlantic waves 
By Africa : the Fortunate Islands named. 
The Golden Isles, the Blessed, in days of old, 
Now the Canary Islands. 

Eager he, 
His captains and his pilots, for the voyage, 
"Whether by common dangers or unknown 
The way might be molested ; but the men 
Bore the like gloomy hearts as those they left 
Watching the sea by Palos. As they went 
A great and stormy wind harassed their ships, 
And the third day, the Pinta staggering wild 
Answered no more her helm ; broken, unshipped 
Her rudder hung. By Pinzon's ready craft 
164 



HIS FIRS T VOYAGE. 1 65 

The mischief was repaired, and she made safe 
Till she should reach her port ; but to the minds 
Of the unwilling seamen this appeared 
An evil omen, and the Admiral 
Doubted not that by treachery and ill-will 
Of the ship's owners had the thing been done, 
Who, forced to yield the Pinta for the voyage, 
Had trusted that when found disabled thus 
Columbus would discard her and her crew, 
And she return to Spain. 

After some days. 
In calmer weather, as the night closed in, 
A heavy cloud which floated far ahead — 
Low-l^x-^ -et not resting on the sea, 
Unchanged of shape through many long bright 

hours — 
Grew purple with a fearful lurid glow ; 
And as they still advanced upon their way 
Clearly they saw that upward shooting flames 
Mixed with the cloudy column that upbore 
That lurid canopy, and all appeared 
As they drew nearer, to spring up in air 
From a deep basin in some mountain-top 
Opening from earth's deep centres. "See," they 

cried. 



i66 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

*' See where he leads us ! If those horrid flames 

Find through the solid earth their way and rise 

Thus in the face of heaven, who knows how soon 

The waves may open, and a burning gulf 

Take us down swiftly to the infernal fires ? 

O Spain, O Spain ! the safety of thy seas ! 

Where natural tempests only, and the foam 

Of tossing billows, come to fright our hearts 

Instead of unknown horrors and the sight 

Of opening Hell ! What saints can save us now ? 

Cruel the king that drove us to this doom, 

Cruel this mad adventurer and his schemes ! " 

Columbus, hearing something of their talk 

And seeing the wide terror of their eyes, 

Came to the bows, and kindly spoke and smiled ; 

And told them this great mountain bore the name 

Of Tenerife ; and hailed the other ships 

To come alongside ; and then told them tales 

Of Etna and Vesuvius, fiery hills 

In Sicily and near Naples, oft beheld 

By him upon his voyages — known by all 

Abiding in those countries, and by all 

Sailing upon those seas, to be the work 

Of God Almighty, like all other hills ; 

And how men feared not round their very feet 



MIS FIRST VOYA GE. 167 

To build their towns, and how in Tenerife 
Were human dwellings, as himself had seen. 
Thus for a time the men were reassured ; 
But when they passed the island, when they heard 
Its terrible thunderings, and on nearer view 
Those shooting flames seemed fiercer, and the 

clouds 
Of smoke and vapour fell around in showers 
Of dust and water and small heated stones — 
They cowered in fear, nor held themselves as safe 
Until they reached Gomera's circling bay. 

Here they took stores — water, and wood, and 
sheep — 
As in the old days in the island home 
Columbus had foreseen. Three weeks' delay 
They suffered here, in part to seek a ship 
To take the Pinta's place, then, that search vain. 
To make her fit for sea ; the Nina's rig 
To alter from her lateen sails to square 
That she might work the handier ; and in part 
Because of absolute unchanging calms. 
Sore-vexed the Admiral was by this delay — , 
For he had news of ships from Portugal 
Lying in wait off Herro for his fleet ; 
But all at last was ready, and their oars 



i68 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Slow took them from Gomera's sheltering port. 
Due west they steered, and when her rocks and 

woods 
Sank out of sight, and fitful airs arose 
That hourly freshening filled their idle sails 
Full from the east, till on a steady breeze 
They sailed past Herro, and her southern cliffs 
Faded and were no more ; and not a line 
Of coast or highest mountain-top was seen 
.All round the clear horizon ; nor appeared 
One sign of the strange vessels — Christopher 
Felt that his hand was firm upon his work, 
His real voyage begun, and his heart braced 
And steady as his ship before the breeze. 
Not so the men ; the horizon clear and bare. 
The deep blue waters which they were the first 
To cleave in form, seemed but a dreary way 
To chaos or some never heard of death ; 
Strange all around them, and their errand strange. 
Their hearts gave way in bitterness and tears. 
" Where do we go ?" they said. " How can we tell 
That yonder circled line before our eyes 
Is not the very edge of the flat earth ? 
What knowledge has he that we can return 
Ever again, if once we come in sight 



HIS FIRS T VO YA GE. 169 

Of that dread gulf of dark and nothingness, 
And near the powers that sure are waiting there 
To drag us over ? Or what dreadful beasts, 
Leviathans, or behemoths, or worse 
Satanic serpents, lie in wait for us ? " 
Columbus sought to cheer them, promised shares 
To all in his good fortunes ; and his speech 
Cheerful and strong, his bold, clear countenance. 
The brave, kind voice that talked their fears away, 
Prevailed again their confidence to win 
And rouse the natural courage of their hearts. 

Across the trackless deep their course was made 
For full two weeks in sunshine, veiled at times 
By soft, thin clouds and gently falling showers ; 
Small winged fishes azure-shining played 
And sprang about the ships, a hern flew over, 
A golden finch alighted on the mast ; 
And all the mariners fancied land was near. 
But other signs they held as ominous ; 
A spar from some wrecked vessel floating by, 
A meteor flashing through the heights of heaven. 
Leaving long trails in the transparent air, 
The lesser falling stars which now seemed strange, 
The changing of the compass — no more fixed 
To the north pole but turning oft aside, 



170 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And their increasing speed. The trade-winds 

blew 
Strong from the east, nor failed by day or night 
Unresting, steady, and the little fleet 
Outsped the Admiral's hopes ; but this he hid, 
And kept a record for the common view 
Which did not show how vast the space which soon 
Lay between them and Spain, whilst for himself 
He had a faithful reckoning, and rejoiced 
To note the lengthening way. The steady wind 
With such a sweet persistence urged the ships 
In course so straight that during many days 
No sail was changed, no rudder moved a point ; 
Fragrance of many flowers came floating round. 
The long calm sunshine and the cloudless skies 
Were tempered by a soft and balmy air. 
Nor heat extreme nor any cold they knew, 
But went like blessed souls to Avalon, 
Great beds of leaves and tangled weeds came by, 
Some pale and withered, as fresh-gathered some, 
Some from the sea-rocks torn, others from banks 
By rivers of fresh water ; a strange bird 
On silver pinions played about the masts 
Or flew before them like a messenger 
Inviting them to some angelic place. 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. lyi 

"Soon" said the men, "soon shall we sight the 

land, 
Soon this good wind shall bear us to the shores 
Whence all these tokens come, and then how 

strange 
Our former tears, our needless fears will seem ! " 

But when again another week had passed 
A shortening sail to wait the other ships, 
Pinzon described the numerous flocks of birds 
Passing from northwards, and the mists and clouds 
In the north offing, which he held for signs 
That land not distant lay upon that side — 
And still Columbus, doubting not that land 
Islands most likely lay to right and left, 
But not the mainland he was making for, 
Refused to steer one half-point from his course. 
And past the light rains, and the hovering birds. 
And the soft feathery vapours, held straight on — 
The disappointed, frightened seamen passed 
Into a passion of distress and fear ; 
All round them sea, and nothing but the sea. 
Day after day to search the horizon round 
And only water meet their straining eyes, 
Night after night to seek their narrow beds 
Nor ever waken to the cry of " Land ! " 



172 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



And every morning still the circling sea 

For all their landscape. Cramped within the ships 

Their aching limbs were weary for the shore, 

Their spirits not the less for freedom pined, 

And often when the Admiral left the poop, 

Leaning upon the taflfrail they would watch 

With gloomy eyes the fast receding line 

Of twisting foam that melted from their sight 

Upon the blue waves homewards, and would say : 

" How can we ever sail again to Spain 

Against this obstinate wind ? What western 

breeze 
Can take us back across this wilderness ? 
Never, oh, never more shall we behold 
Our huts beside the Tinto ! Never our wives 
Or little children kiss us any more ! 
And what to us will be those boasted lands 
If ever we behold them ? Better far 
We love our rough life and our simple homes, 
Our plain fare, olives, chestnuts, and coarse bread, 
Than these magnificent palaces of gold. 
The wonderful flowers and fruits of which we 

hear, 
But which no man of woman born has seen ! " 
The very splendour of the cloudless sky 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 



The gorgeous fires of sunset and of dawn, 
Became a terror to them, a mere show 
As all things round, delusive. Cheering words 
Columbus spoke to them, and hearty jest. 
But well he knew that always haunting fear 
Hung round his ships, and superstitious dread. 
To make unwilling workers when the stress 
Of toil and hardship called for ready hearts ; 
He knew that all — his voyage, his very life, 
Hung on his power to please them and to rule, 
Even as his security from shipwreck 
Hung on the stoutness of a fir-tree plank, 
A rudder-line, or cable. 

At such times 
Would De Arana urge the men to dance 
And cheer themselves with music ; and they loved 
To make two mariners from North Portugal 
Sing, after the manner of their country, songs 
Made on the instant, to some old-world air. 
To their guitars alternate, answering thus : 

1st Mar. Say if thou knowest the wine that they 
grow in the vineyards of Minho, 
Vineyards of trellis and tree, where 
ripen the large purple clusters ? 



174 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



2d Mar, Rich and strong of the grape-juice, and 
lively the vintage of Minho, 
Glad is the heart of the man that drinks 
of its generous purple ! 

\st Mar, As a friend warm and courageous, the 
wine that they press by the Minho, 
Such the good fellows that drink it, 
what wilt thou say of the maidens ? 

2d Mar, Large and soft their dark eyes beneath 
the black hats and silk plumage. 
Loving the bosoms that beat beneath the 
heavy gold necklets. 

1st Mar, Ah for the maids and the dancing, the 
terraced fields on the hill-side ! 
The ox-ploughs, the reaping of wheat, 
the labours and sports of my boyhood ! 

2d Mar. Ah for the netting of fishes, alike on the 
sea and the river ! 
Ah for my home on the meadows be- 
tween the rough sea and the river ! 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 



1st Mar. Thus we both long in our singing with 
tears and with sighs for our country ; 
When will the weary days end, the 
weary sight of this ocean ? 

2d Mar. Thus we both long in our singing, our 
spirits are weighed down with sorrow, 
Ever more dreary and sad, our days on 
this desolate ocean ! 

But songs like this drew forth the ready tears 
Of the down-hearted listeners, and Arana 
Would bid them tell some legend he had heard 
Along their coast, and one of them would say, 
" I will, senhor, I can recite it bravely." 
Sitting astride then, on the lower end 
Of the strong bowsprit, would begin it thus : 

Hearken to this sweet tale of old — 
To make you smile, to make you weep — 
How once the fountains of the deep 
Were opened, and the oceans rose 
Above the high Caucasian snows, 
And from the opening heavens the rain 
Poured ceaseless on the levelled main, 



176 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Where through thick vapours soft and dark 
Floated for weeks Noah's mighty ark. 

The great rains ceased ; the falling tides 
Sank slowly on the mountain sides, 
Leaving all bare the rocky crown 
Where the great Ark had settled down. 
Whilst still the brown and frothing floods 
Made islands of the hills and woods ; 
Piled deep the pasture-lands with stones, 
And strewed them with the mingled bones 
Of men and beasts — did Noah come forth 
To gaze upon the ruined earth, 
And find upon her altered face 
No sign of his old dwelling-place. 
He bade his sons go forth in quest 
Of some new home where he might rest, 
And first to travel towards the West. 
They went by mountain and by plain, 
Through Greece and Italy and Spain, 
And found no home, then forth again 
Through Portugal they journeyed on, 
And reached the coast when day was done. 
Silent they stood in ecstasy — 
Before them lay the crimson sea, 



HIS FIRST VOYA GE. 177 

The crimson sea, the flaming West, 

In all its perfect glory dressed. 

They said : " 'T is here our sire may rest." 

Thither they brought him, and he said, 

And reverent bowed his hoary head : 

" The Lord's full glory is confessed, 

And all their undertakings blessed 

To those who seek him by the West." 

Thus the men's thoughts were turned from their 

despair. 
And for a little cheered. 

At last the wind 
Slackened a little, fluttered, veered, and fell. 
Then in the west rose, soft and fragance-laden 
As if from fields and gardens. A great whale, 
Floating upon the calm and sunny sea, 
Sent up its double fountain ; on all sides 
Shoals of such weed as shallow waters bear 
In brown and yellow tangles, closed them in ; 
Yet the deep-sea lead frequent cast, still sank 
Some hundred fathoms and no bottom found. 
The west wind dropped ; a leaden stillness came 
Upon the sea, affrighting more the crews 
Than any other danger, and one said 

Z9 



178 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

That they would lie for ever in these weeds 
That stretched, it seemed, for miles on every side, 
For he remembered legends of an isle 
Foundered of old, and drawing surely down. 
By its marine trees and strange climbing plants, 
The unwary ships that crossed its sunken snares. 
Such light, quick airs as sprang up in the west 
From time to time, too light and transient were 
To clear them from the weeds, or take them back 
Those many, many hundred leagues ; to them as 

dread 
Those delicate zephyrs as the roughest gales. 
But whilst they feared and murmured, the sea rose 
Heaved by some force unknown, in long slow swell 
Sending the tangled seaweeds far apart ; 
The ships with new life rode upon the wave 
And as by miracle floated clear again. 
But this release cheered not the hearts morose 
Resolved to fear and to distrust their chief — 
A desperado, light of head, distraught — 
And who could blame them if they took the rule 
Into their own hands for their own lives' sake. 
And turning homewards made their way to Spain 
Before the stores ran out ? Nor need they fear 
His vengeance on their landing, they could trust 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 



The waves to hide, if they should cast him out, 
A second Jonah ; they could well contrive 
That it should seem a natural accident, 
A sudden squall, a broken spar that fell. 
Columbus saw their thoughts, as oft before, 
Knew that his life was trembling in their hands, 
But ever kept his hopeful, calm, aspect 
And the clear courage of his kindling eyes. 
The two Pinzons, nor treacherous nor mean, 
Yet went not with him truly from their hearts. 
Resisted him in judgment, sought to take 
High-handed their own way ; De Escobedo, 
Gutierrez, and the other officers, 
Jealous and haughty were but foes concealed. 
And but for De Arana's constant help — 
An honourable man, a hearty friend — 
He stood almost alone. 

So the time passed 
Until Columbus, on a certain day 
Studying the observations made at noon, 
Judged they were in the waters where must lie 
Cipango, the great island. Then Pinzon, 
Having a needed chart with him, was signalled. 
Came alongside, and swung it by a cord 
Back to the Admiral, and even then 



i8o CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Whilst he and his best pilots bent their heads 
Over the unrolled parchment as it lay 
Spread on his knees, and earnestly surveyed 
With pointed finger all the numbered lines, 
And tracings of the islands — Pinzon's voice 
Loud rang out from his poop : " Land ! senhor, 

land ! 
Mine the reward, I plainly see the land ! " 
That narrow shade upon the farthest light 
Of the south-west horizon, sure was land ! 
The Admiral knelt, Pinzon with cheerful voice 
Recited loud the Gloria in Excelsis, 
All joined him in thanksgiving, and the crews 
Swarmed up the masts, and on the rigging hung, 
Each shouting that he plainly saw the land ; 
And with such vehement entreaties prayed 
To change their course, and seek those blessed 

shores, 
The Admiral yielded to them, and all night 
They sailed south-west. But when the morning 

broke. 
Bare was the whole horizon, not a sign 
Of smallest island glittered in the light, — 
All around was sea and nothing but the sea. 
Sadly the fleet resumed its due-west course. 



HIS FIRS T VO YA GE. i8i 



Yet pleasant times beguiled them : in the smooth 

And sapphire water did the sailors bathe, 

And swimming round to stretch their stiffened 

limbs, 
Found rivals in the dolphins, tumbling past, 
After their wont delighting in the sun 
And in the tranquil weather ; and again 
The little winged fishes flashed o'erhead 
And lighted on the decks ; small land-birds came, 
From time to time, and rested on the ships 
And sang as in a grove ; an albatross 
Sailed over on broad wings, and the small fishes 
That haunt the seashore rocks played round the 

stern ; 
Grasses came by ; but then again, for days 
No birds were seen, no pleasant signs of land. 

The first days of October being come, 
A month had passed since Herro's lessening cliffs 
Had gone down out of sight ; the distance sailed 
Was nearly, as Columbus counted it, 
Seven hundred and fifty leagues, which in his 

mind 
Should bring them to Cipango. Daily now 
The mariners, excited by the scene 
And by their ever-varying hopes and fears, 



i82 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Continual shouted " Land ! " and ever wrong 
Grew daily more rebellious. On the sixth 
Pinzon himself lost confidence, and desired 
To stand to southward, but Columbus still 
Changed not his mind at all, and bade his ships 
Keep well together, most at morn and eve 
When the light-lying level gives to view 
Most clearly all the distance. On the seventh, 
At sunrise, from his own mast-head was seen 
A film so like to land that he sent on 
The Nina, a fast sailer, to explore ; 
And soon her hoisted flag and echoing gun 
Announced the joyful certainty to all. 
Proud and rejoicing went the little fleet. 
Ringing with song and laughter all the day, 
But when the sun went down, in his last light 
Bare, clear, and bare, the whole horizon lay. 
No level land, no mountain-top was seen. 

All through the night the Admiral deeply 
mused ; 
The tokens truly pointed from the course 
He had till now maintained ; the two Pinzons 
For change of course were urgent, and the crews 
So long and hardly tried would take fresh heart. 
Whilst, if a few days' sailing found him wrong 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. i33 

But little time was lost, he could return 
To his original plan. He stood south-west, 
And for three days they went with clearest skies 
And favourable winds, and all the signs — 
The shore-side fishes playing round the ships. 
The little land-birds of no distant flight 
That came at morning, and upon the masts 
Sang all the day, winging their way at night 
To the south-west as if their home lay there, 
And came again at morning, summer ducks 
Seen once or twice, rose-tinted pelicans. 
The richer scents, the grasses on the wave 
Fresher and greener— were more frequent seen. 
But the disordered crews so long beguiled. 
So frequently mistaken in their hopes. 
Murmured and cursed with every league they made, 
And darkly scowling, round the Admiral came, 
Saying, " We go no farther, we no more 
Believe these signs your arts have conjured up ; 
They are but devilish flatteries, and will soon 
Betray us to some strange and horrible death 
And the perdition of our sinful souls. 
See the sun sinking for this seventieth time 
Since we left Palos on that stormy night 
Of evil omen, driving us all day, 



i84 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

At night it drags us onward as it sets ; 

We will go home whilst yet our souls are ours ; 

Take us back whence you brought us ; we refuse 

At your command to sail another league ; 

Against our wills we came this hated voyage ; 

Turn the ships' heads, for we are desperate men." 

The Admiral looked straight in each man's eyes, 

The last red rays upon his resolute face : 

" Men, I am not your servant, nor am I 

As my own master. I am here to serve 

My sovereign princes, they command this voyage, 

Pledged am I to pursue it, and I will. 

I thought you were brave men, and must I find 

That when you come to the proof you are but 

cowards ? 
Do you forget that all revolt from me 
Is treason to your sovereigns, and a crime 
That cannot be forgiven ? Are you not brave ? 
Yet will you now desert me, who am bound 
To finish out my task ? who have no thought 
But that God helps us all? Get you to bed, 
Commend yourselves to God, and you shall have 
Forgiveness, both from Him and from your king." 
For this time they were awed, and sought their 

beds 



HIS FIRS r VO YA GE, 185 

Submissive, but arose with gloomy brows, 
And anger working darkly in their hearts. 

At morning with a freshening breeze they flew 
Swift through the rushing water and the spray, 
And swifter yet, and gloomy eyes beheld 
Large sprays of flowers float dazzling past the ships ; 
Great uncouth fruits fresh broken from the bough, 
Or green or scarlet, smooth or prickly skinned, 
Glow in the foam, and undulating passed 
A long blue feather in the curving wave ; 
A butterfly that rested on a stalk 
Closed and unclosed its large and purpled wings ; 
And then a reed, a plank, a carven staff 
Were dripping brought on board : the sunny skies 
Were not more bright than hope on every face. 
At sunset when the vesper-hymn was sung 
On the St. Mary, to the excited crew 
The Admiral spoke: "Give thanks to God," he 

said, 
** That he has brought us safe seven hundred leagues 
Across these unknown waters ; from Gomera 
In sunshine and fair weather we have come, 
And now your fears have melted into hope 
And a full confidence. Remember now 
My former orders given, that when our ships 



i86 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Had made two thousand miles, we must not stir 
After the night has fallen ; these good signs 
Call us to caution, and your rising joy 
Must teach you also patience ; so to-night 
We will take in our sails, nor make more way 
Than is forced onus by the slackening wind, 
No doubt ere morning we shall sight the land." 
He went up on the poop, the mariners 
Thronged the forecastle, and their jests and songs 
And frequent shouts, from one or other ship 
Slow heaving up and down upon the swell, 
Made the long night hours noisy. 

Silent, still, 
As earth before the sunrise, stood and watched 
Columbus. Slow the hours passed by ; a gleam 
Drew his quick eyes ; he doubted if he saw, 
And to Gutierrez, speaking soft and low, 
Bade him come up and look ; Gutierrez came, 
And to him also was the little gleam 
Clearly a human light ; but fearing still, 
Because of his strong wish, the Admiral 
Called the chief pilot Sancho to come up. 
And then no light was visible. Long they watched, 
Till their eyes ached and dazzled ; then again 
They saw it come and go, as borne by one 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 187 

Moving on shore, or swaying in a boat 

Upon the water ; but none thought the gleam 

Was a light really borne by human hands 

Except Columbus only, and he knew 

The time was come, and with calm confidence, 

Resting upon his arm, looking straight on 

Beneath the starry glory of the night, 

He waited what he knew the dawn would bring. 

At two, the Pinta's signal gun was fired, 

And loud the cry was heard, " Land ! senhor, land ! " 

Not far ahead there lay a level shape, 

Darker than any cloud, of outline clear 

And never-changing — it was land indeed. 

No clouds were in the heavens, no film or mist 

Was on the whole horizon, only there 

The low unchanging line upon the sea, 

Not more than two leagues distant. As they lay 

Cautious, soft-drifting on the quiet waves, 

Columbus let his dreaming thoughts flow on 

In solemn joy beyond the power of speech. 

And wondering expectation almost pain. 

" At last," he said, " at last my cup is full ; 

My twenty years of service are repaid." 

Towards dawn he stood alert and bade prepare 
To land at sunrise. He and the Pinzons 



i88 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Had their boats manned, and every man well armed. 

And each boat bore a standard richly worked — 

On one side a green cross, on the reverse 

The letters of the sovereigns' names : " F. Y.," 

And over each its proper crown in gold. 

When the swift glow of dawn swept up the sky, 

They saw the land in many level leagues 

Of feathering palms, green sward, and bordering 

sands, 
But nowhere any city, nor a sign 
Of church or village or of peasant's cot. 
Columbus gave the word, the anchors dropped. 
And richly clad in scarlet he went down 
Into his boat, holding in his left hand 
The royal standard ; like the Pinzons 
In goodly vesture, bearing each his flag. 

Slowly rowing through the pure and scented air. 
Above the crystal waters in whose depths 
Each painted shell and branching coral shone 
Clear as on land, they saw as they drew near. 
Bare, tawny men standing upon the beach. 
Or running from the woods in deep amaze 
To gaze upon the wonderful huge shapes 
Lying between them and the rising sun. 
Seeming some terrible wild beasts of the sea ; 



HIS FIRST VOYA GE. 189 

But when the boats of unaccustomed form, 

Carrying magnificent beings, bearded, strange, 

Came closer to the shore, these innocent men, 

Afifrighted, ran back to their woods again. 

Then on the white sands grated every keel, 

And first stepped out, majestical and grave, 

The Admiral, who straight knelt down and kissed 

The earth with reverence, saying in himself : 

" My God, my God, thou grantest my long prayer, 

This is the consummation of my life, 

I thank thee with the whole strength of my heart." 

Then he raised up his glowing face, where tears 

Of joy ran over, and in solemn voice. 

All having knelt like him, and like him kissed 

The new-found old-world soil : " Let us give 

thanks, 
Let us the glory give to God our Lord, 
Who brought us through the perils of the sea, 
To take these shores for ever in the names 
Of our great sovereigns." And he arose and stood 
And drew his sword, and set up the three flags. 
And in the midst of his small company 
Fulfilled all legal forms, received their oaths, 
And took possession of the new-found land 
For the two crowns of Arragon and Castile. 



igo CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Then burst loud transports forth, with shouts and 

tears 
The seamen ran and stamped upon the sands, 
Rejoiced to feel their feet on earth again ; 
Or crowded eager round the Admiral, 
Kissing his hands, embracing him with thanks, 
Forgetting now their former mutiny, 
Their sullen opposition, in one breath 
Praying for pardon and for great rewards. 

Meanwhile, the innocent natives taking heart 
Drew slowly near, with many pauses made 
To kneel and lay their heads and arms in dust, 
Adoring these, so godlike and unknown. 
Who had come down in wondrous broad-winged 

cars 
Moving at their command, and who appeared 
To this dark ignorant people even to be 
Some creatures from the sun, offspring of gods. 
Then growing bolder still, they gathered round 
Gazing, and touching each man and his clothes ; 
Worshipping most the tall and stately man 
Whose evident greater strength and gracious mien 
Assured them he was chief. With like surprise 
The Spaniards gazed on them : their slender forms 
Painted and streaked with many a gaudy hue, 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 



Their long black hair cut straight across their 

brows, 
Their soft black eyes, their mild and gentle ways, 
As children trustful, kind ; for all defence 
Light slender spears of cane they had, bone-tipped 
Or hardened in the fire. Some simple gifts 
The Admiral shared amongst them ; beads and 

toys, 
And tinkling hawk's-bells, whose unwonted sound 
Enchanted them like music ; everything 
Brought by these wonderful strangers had a charm 
Mysterious, as of heaven. With grateful hands 
They brought their best in answer, cotton thread 
Wound in great balls, parrots and yucca-bread ; 
And from the woods their wives and children came 
To gaze upon the strangers. Gold they had 
In thin small plates, and sought by many signs 
To make the Admiral know that it was brought 
From a great western country, where the king 
In golden vessels decked with gems was served. 
Of hollowed trunks of trees their boats were made 
In which they lightly tossed upon the waves 
Easy and safe as birds ; their huts were built 
Of palm-tree logs, and roofed in with the leaves 
Seemed like a natural growth upon the soil. 



193 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

All day the weary voyagers reposed, 
In rest that seemed a new-created joy, 
Sufficient, inexhaustible ; at night 
On board returning, even Columbus slept 
Through quiet hours such deep refreshing sleep 
As since he sailed from Spain he had not known. 
Two days they passed in rest, then sailed away 
To search the island round, which they had named 
San Salvador ; and taking then on board 
Some of the willing natives, both to serve 
As pilots well-acquainted with those seas. 
And as interpreters ; for days they passed 
Along the crystal deep from isle to isle 
Each lovelier than the other. Spreading trees, 
Clear lakes, and sparkling rivulets they found ; 
Amidst the palm-woods and the hanging flowers 
Large bright-hued parrots flashed across the sun, 
Screeching their noisy joy ; the softer notes 
Of countless smaller birds filled all the glades. 
And some, mere sparks of jewelled feathers, hung 
Murmuring above the flowers, or softly passed. 
Lovely and swift as light ; the air was full 
Of varying perfumes, spices, blossoms, leaves ; 
A starlit softness were the balmy nights. 
Filled with the noise of insects, and the flash 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 193 

Of four-flamed fire-flies. The white-sanded shores 

In coral terraces went sudden down 

Into deep waters, or in stretching reefs 

Made natural harbours, where in liquid calm 

Rocks and white sands and shells of varied hue, 

Polished, fantastic, branching coral woods. 

Large seaweeds feathering out their crimson sprays, 

Or floating golden streamers shone and gleamed 

Plain in the daylight stillness ; and where flashed 

Fishes of shining sides and rainbow hues. 

All was like fairy-land, and over all 

And filling all, was soft translucent air 

And cloudless blue. These isles Columbus deemed 

The very islands lying near Cathay, 

By Marco Polo seen, and farther south 

The lands reported by these natives, rich 

And gold-producing, could none other be 

Than Mangi or Cipango or Cathay ; 

In counsel with his comrades where to sail, 

Those golden lands imperious drew his choice. 

Amongst the countless islands scattered wide 

Over the bright seas and transparent depths, 

Careful he led his ships, amongst the reefs, 

The shoaling sands, the frequent currents' force ; 

From time to time pausing to go on shore 
13 



194 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

One or another of these fairy realms ; 

Joyful they went by day, and slept each night 

Expectant of fresh wonders when they rose. 

Thus ere October closed, before them stood 

Magnificent mountains ranging high and wide, 

And wide and lofty forests ; a vast island 

Known by the name of Cuba. Landing first 

Beside a river-mouth — San Salvador, 

The sea-worn ships were drawn up on the beach 

To be repaired and thoroughly careened, 

And in the pause of necessary work. 

Both officers and seamen would go forth 

Exploring on the river and the plains. 

Amidst those newer scenes ; for in this land 

Of larger beauty, all the glowing air 

Was yet more warm and balmy, tree and flower 

More stately, sweet, and gracious, and the skies 

Seemed to swell higher, and their radiant hues 

To be more clear and radiant. 

Thus one day 
The Admiral, De Arana, young Pinzon, 
And all the men not needed at the ships, 
Taking a boat, rowed gently up the stream 
Between the bamboo thickets on each bank. 
Rising some two score feet, their pliant canes 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 195 

Crossing and intercrossed, impenetrable, 

Shaded the river ; farther on, amidst 

An open space, a single plant arose 

In long innumerous stems, arch above arch 

Of swaying plumes that bowed their gentle weight 

Into a soft and purplish tinted dome. 

And made all round a kind of green arcade 

Of clear and rustling twilight. Far across 

That level sweep, where sedge and arum grew 

Around a quiet pool, some red gleams caught 

Their curious eyes, and forthwith young Pinzon 

And most part of the crew, leaving the boat. 

Set out to find the cause ; beneath the shade 

Of the banana's long and arching leaves 

There stood in still repose small scarlet cranes 

Reflected in the water ; these they named 

For their bright hue, flamingoes. Pushing on 

They came to a dry ground beneath broad oaks 

And clumps of pine-trees, over whose proud tops 

Towered the golden trunks of royal palms, 

And the smooth grey palmistas column-like, 

Catching a fuller light which drew their eyes 

Higher and higher to the arching roofs 

Where sunshine made transparent all the leaves 

With green and amber ; where upon the boughs 



196 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Burdens of other foliage hung, and threw 
Their flowery trails across from tree to tree. 
Of white bells wax-like, gold or scarlet stars, 
Crimson or azure cups, and wreathed the trunks 
With like luxuriance of like mingled hues 
Gorgeous or delicate, and made the place 
A very palace of beauty, all the air 
Filled as with heavy incense. Here and there 
Flitted the butterflies like wandering flowers, 
And birds flashed past, or settled overhead 
To pour out ravishing songs. All was so vast, 
So wonderful, so beautiful, that they who gazed, 
The roughest man amongst them, stood there fixed. 
Breathless as under some cathedral nave. 
After a while, searching with curious eyes, 
They saw upon the ground the fallen fruits 
Creamy and sweet, and smiling ate their fill. 
And called those fruits ambrosia, food for gods. 
Sitting on tree-trunks green with feathery ferns. 
Bright with fantastic orchids' various hues, 
They lingered long in indolent delight, 
Then gathered up of those abundant stores 
As much as they could carry to the boat, 
That with their fragrant spoils ihey might rejoice 
Their waiting comrades, and return again 



HIS FIRST VOVA GE. 



To take away fresh burdens. 

Many a time 
Columbus, gazing at the mountain sides, 
Had longed with a great longing to go up 
And look upon the country from those heights ; 
Now, waiting in the boat amid the stir 
Of the quick-gliding water and the canes 
Swaying above his head, and numerous sounds 
In the mysterious forest on each hand — 
He could resist no longer, and set out 
Alone across the level breadth of green. 
And struck into the woods. Through the lianas 
Hanging down snake-like, slung from tree to tree, 
Through many-prickled cacti, round or tall, 
Through thorny roseaux palms, through slender 

canes 
Clinging with crooked claws at every joint 
To bush and tree, he made himself a way 
With his good sword, and to the very feet 
Of the first mountain cliffs. From rock to rock 
Eager he climbed, until above the trees 
He reached a height whence he could see around 
From the high mountains rising up behind. 
Across the forest's fluctuating sea 
To the blue ocean, still the shore unseen. 



198 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

There, standing on a granite rock, he gazed 

Into the solemn region of the woods ; 

From palm to pine-top, oak, and sycamore 

His eye went on for miles, all solemn, still. 

As if in expectation, as remote 

From step or touch of man as mountain heights 

Wrapped in perpetual snow, or the small clouds 

That in the blue transparent heights of heaven 

Lie white and delicate. Here long he gazed, 

Up to those mountains where no human foot 

Had ever trod, and saw them stretch for leagues 

On either hand against the melting sky. 

And towards the horizon to behold the sea 

Whence he had come from Spain ; then to the west 

Where stretching on, the immeasurable space 

Of this great continent lay. His heart was full 

And overflowed in speech : " O lovely land ! 

After how long and many years I see 

These scenes that were my youth's, my life's 

desire ! 
After how long, after how many years ! 
How I rejoice now that I did not yield. 
But pressed my strong wish through all obstacles. 
And never failed to strengthen and renew 
My patient, passionate efforts, that have brought 



HIS FIRST VOYAGE. 199 

Success in fullest measure ; and I rest. 

Yet here are not the temples and vast towns, 

The gorgeous grandeur of huge palaces, 

Such as I thought to find, nor world-worn kings. 

O land, and lovely islands, and fair seas ! 

Following the setting sun we find you here 

Bathed in a fresh, untouched, a hushed delight 

As of perpetual morning ; all things here 

Are dewy with the fragrance of the dawn, 

And Eden's glory. Old land ! thou art new, 

As when one looking on his first-born babe. 

Filled with a rapture of a new delight 

Beholds him as the first of all the race ; 

The world's long history forgotten quite, 

The hundred generations slipped away 

Out of his mind, uncounted. Innocent 

Thy gentle superstitions as the blank 

Of soulless infancy, which hath no creed 

Nor worship ; but ere long, O world, to thee 

Shall come the truth that wakens up the soul, 

Saves, and makes free. Ere no long time thy 

sons 
Shall throng to matins and to even-song. 
Called by the melody of chiming bells ; 
Vigil and feast shall learn, and all things good. 



200 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Cities shall rise upon thy river-sides, 
And teach thee industries and arts ; thy soil 
Shall bring forth double when good husbandry 
Informs thy people through the white men's care. 
Then will my noble queen be proud and glad 
That to the poor Italian she gave heed, 
And saw his soul, and knew him as elect 
To take this great adventure to its end. 
Hither my sons shall come — as rulers here 
Christian and noble ; and I ere I die, 
Taking of thy rich stores shall gain my end. 
The Holy Land be rescued and made great 
And safely guarded till the end of time. 
Beloved old world ! not vain the augury 
Which brought the Holy Rood across the deep 
In swift and cloudless voyage, and no life lost ; 
I, Christopher, have borne the Lord Christ here, 
Even as he bade me on the stormy night 
When by the wave-beat rocks I made my vow." 



CANTO IX. 

DISCOVERY OF HAYTI— RETURN TO 
SPAIN— RECEPTION AT BARCELONA. 

AAT" EST WARD again Columbus led his ships, 

Past headland after headland, river and bay, 
And still no ending, and conjecture grew 
That here indeed was Asia, and the dreams 
Which had upheld him all those weary years 
No dreams but simple truth ; yet when convinced 
That also this was but a sea-girt land 
And Asia yet to seek, he held it clear 
It was surrounded by the Indian seas ; 
Yet later did his fancy turn again 
To his first thought — and in that thought he died. 

Along these shores they found the native folk 
As elsewhere, trustful, kind, but better skilled 
Of eye and hand, their houses better built. 
Larger and well adorned. They led their lives 



202 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

In household ways more ordered ; in their homes 
Idols of wood they had, and made by signs 
Profession of religion. Here Columbus 
Learned from the natives that the vast domains 
Of Prester John, for so he apprehended 
Their speech and signs, at no great distance lay 
Beyond the distant mountains ; and sent forth 
Some of his people to make search three days 
For the great Khan, the convert world-renowned. 
These, from their fruitless errand when returned. 
Told how their way had lain through fertile lands 
Of spices, fruits, rare gums, and precious ores, 
Awaiting but the white man's master touch 
To change to boundless wealth — and on all sides 
The fame came to them of an island rich 
Beyond all islands in great caves of gold 
Pure, inexhaustible, Babeque called 
In the strange Indian tongue. Eastward it lay, 
But eastward when the Admiral turned his ships 
Rough billows and head winds assailed his fleet, 
The first rude contradiction of the sea 
That he had yet encountered since he left 
The Old World in September. Day by day 
They stretched out far to seaward, driven at night 
To seek safe anchorage along the shore, 



DISCOVERY OF HA YTI, 203 

Signalling duly the two caravels 

To turn back likewise ; and one morning thus, 

The Pinta, which had worked much farther east, 

Was now^here to be seen. Martin Pinzon, 

A proud, bold man, resented in his heart 

That an Italian should rule over him, 

A Spaniard, well-renowned amongst his kin, 

Who was the chief man in his native town 

And down the coast ; and having heard much talk 

Among the Indians from San Salvador, 

Of gold-veined rocks and golden-sanded streams 

In some great land to which they knew the way 

Saw in these storms, and in his well-built ship, 

A good fast sailer even against the wind, 

Large opportunity : he made all sail, 

And boldly tacking, was by break of day 

Far beyond reach of keenest searching eyes. 

Deeply Columbus was disquieted, 

For knowing well Pinzon's high-tempered pride. 

His nautical skill and aptness for command. 

And how unwillingly he had been forced 

To yield obedience to him — much he feared 

Some treacherous attempt upon his part 

At separate search, or to report in Spain 

The news of these discoveries as his own ; 



204 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

But useless to pursue, unknown his course, 
And the St. Mary of much larger burden 
And slower on the sea. 

Along the coast 
Sailing at times, going on shore at times, 
December days began, genial and mild, 
And on the fifth they rounded the steep cliffs 
High and palm-crested, by Columbus called 
Alpha and Omega ; for the first they were 
Sailing to westward, and the last when now 
Passed on an eastward course with all the deep 
Lonely and bare before them. Cruising still 
In wishful vagueness, borne this way and that 
By pleasant breezes, till the Cuban cliffs 
Had set behind them, their delighted eyes 
Eastward beheld a range of mountain-tops 
Shining above the sea-line, and elate 
With fresh discovery they sailed away 
Towards this new island, slowly rising large 
And beautiful into view. But at the sight 
Of those hill-tops their trembling Indians prayed. 
With staring eyes and gestures of despair, 
Not to advance, for the inhabitants 
Were Carribees and man-eaters ; but in vain 
They prayed and warned ; Columbus held his course, 



DISCOVERY OF HA YTI. 205 

And steered straight for the island. Peak on peak 

Uprising tall, like carven pinnacles, 

Smooth verdant mountains swelling from the woods, 

Rivers, cascades, and frequent gardens fair — 

Such Hayti was, a green delightful land 

Where the warm teeming earth and gracious skies, 

Brought all things to their fruit with little sweat 

Of human labour ; and such joyous life 

Bred in the mariners' hearts, that they exclaimed : 

" This is our Spain ! our Andalusian land 

Enlarged, enchanted. Hearken, even the voice 

Of our own nightingales ! Give it a name 

O Admiral, in remembrance of our Spain." 

So was that island by Columbus called 

Hispaniola, and he loved it well. 

Here also were the Indians faithful, kind, 
And gave these wonderful strangers of their stores. 
Worshipped them, made them welcome, thought no 

thing 
Too good to do for them, brothers and gods. 
Long afterwards they met the fearful tribes 
Of the Carribaean Isles. Here frequently 
Came the inferior chiefs in litters borne, 
To see the ships ; unclothed but golden-crowned, 
Prince-like in simple hospitalities. 



2o6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Their great chief was Guacana, and he proved 
A true and fast friend to the Admiral, 
Loving him as a brother, and by him, 
Through seeming treachery and much ill-report 
In after days, trusted in as a brother. 
Now on first hearing of these wonderful ships 
And their white lords, he sent out his state-barge 
Filled with his people, bringing gifts of gold, 
And praying these celestial voyagers 
To visit him at Guarico where he dwelt. 

Thus it fell out, that late on Christmas Eve, 
Cruising to eastward, seeking for the mouth 
Of the great river where Guacana dwelt. 
The Admiral's ship St. Mary struck the reefs 
Through his men's carelessness. The rolling surf 
Beat on his vessel broadside till she shook 
From stem to stern, her every timber strained, 
And in the sand she lay immovable. 
Columbus went for refuge, with his crew, 
On board the Nina, and at break of day 
Guacana came with large and small canoes 
And many men, and by their vigorous aid 
The ship which hourly sundered in the swell 
Was soon unloaded, and her many stores 
Brought to the shore in safety, where they lay 



DISCOVERY OF HA YTI. 



Untouched by any native. The good chief 

Gave them all shelter, and he set apart 

A large house in his village for Columbus, 

To be his own so long as he would stay 

To see the island and repose himself. 

Hence it arose, that lacking room for all 

Of the two crews on board the caravel. 

And they beseeching earnestly to remain 

In that sweet land, the Admiral perceived 

In these events a sign direct from Heaven 

To leave a certain number of his men. 

And thus make sure that if his one small ship 

Should founder in mid-ocean, and Pinzon 

Pursue some treacherous plot, or also fail 

To cross the sea in safety — on this isle 

There would remain a record of these things, 

And his great voyage not fail of its full fruit. 

Ample supply the wrecked St. Mary gave 

Of timbers ready shaped ; and first was built 

A large, strong store-vault, over that a tower 

For dwelling and defence, around the tower 

Was dug a deep, wide moat, and on the top 

Was a great cannon set ; all arms and stores 

That could be spared they left. For their new Fort 

The name they chose was The Nativity, 



2o8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

In memory of their great deliverance 
That Christmas morning. Forty of the crews 
Were chosen by the Admiral to remain, 
Their governor De Arana, next in power 
Pedro Gutierrez and De Escobedo. 

On the last day at noon, beside saman-trees 
Hung with the shining leaves and large white 

flowers 
Heavy with scent, of matapalo plants, 
Under the palms Columbus made a feast 
To entertain the hospitable prince 
And his chief followers ; and after that 
A great display of European arms 
And mimic fighting. On an ebon stool 
Guacana sat to watch, on either side 
His bearers stood to canopy his head 
With broad leaves of the plantain, or brought 

herbs 
Of balmy scent to rub his hands withal 
After his meal. To end the warlike game 
Columbus caused the cannon to be fired, 
Loaded with stones, as customary then : 
The sudden flame and smoke, the rolling noise. 
And falling of great trees before the stones, 
Startling the numerous parrots from the shade, 



DISCOVER V OF HA VTI. 209 

Which gleaming red and blue vociferous rose 

Shaking the matapalo blossoms down — 

With dread and wonder filled the Indian guests ; 

Yet strengthened them in joyful confidence 

In these great Lords of Thunder, who would use 

For their defence such supernatural powers. 

Then all was ended, and night drawing on 

Columbus and his people, and Guacana 

And many of his people, sought the beach 

Where the ships' boats lay ready ; then Columbus, 

Setting together the small band of men 

Whom he should leave, and while the night air 

sighed 
Soft in the canes and palm-trees, and the moon 
Full-orbed shone golden on the hills and sea, 
And on his earnest face — he spoke these words : 
" Comrades, through months of sunshine, and 

some storm 

We have sailed together, and together shared 

Labour and hardship and a joy most strange ; 

But now we share no longer good or ill, 

And when you think that I have brought you here 

Where you remain contented, also think 

How often you misdoubted and despaired, 

And trust me now, and set fast in your hearts 
14 



2IO CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

These last words that I speak. In unknown 

scenes, 
To untried dangers, midst a heathen folk — 
With no mistrust I leave you ; for your chief 
Is well approved in conduct and in arms, 
Ready in sudden action, fit to rule, 
A kind and loyal gentleman ; to him 
I charge you by your duty to the queen, 
Give such direct obedience as you owe 
To me, our sovereign's representative. 
Nor church you have, nor priest, but you may 

keep 
Your lives as honest and your hands as clean 
By natural prayers amongst these stately groves 
Where God is present to you, as of old 
He was in Eden, heard amongst the trees — 
As clean and honest by those simple prayers 
As with the pomp of sacrament and bell 
Now for a time denied you. Live in peace 
And good faith with the Indians, and the most 
In all things that concern their women-folk, 
For in those things are all men's hearts alike ; 
Despise not their dark colour, they may be 
Lower in race than we are, but have souls 
That like ours must be saved ; weaker they are. 



DISCOVERY OF HA YTI. 



And we by nature's ordinance their lords, 
But not for that despise them, rather aid ; 
Forget not they have given us ready love 
And kindness as to brothers. To the caciques 
See you be true and courteous, specially 
To this Guacana, unto whom we owe 
A gratitude unmeasured, for good deeds 
Done to us without measure or reward. 
Go not outside Guacana's territory, 
Him do you know, him do you safely trust ; 
Keep well together here and you are strong, 
But scattered you are nothing. 

Now to end, 
Give to each other what your own hearts teach, 
Good comradeship, the ready heart and hand, 
Unshaken loyalty, and if you fail 
To thrive and prosper, if on sunken reefs 
You go aground and founder — it will be 
As the St. Mary did, through your own fault, 
In slighting these the last commands I give. 
Comrades, farewell, God keep you, and give leave 
That here we find you prosperous and well 
Ere many months be past." He turned and kissed 
Arana on each cheek, and gave his hand 
To every man in turn, and then embraced 



212 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The gentle chief who wept, with hearty words 
Of thanks and friendship, and straight stepped 

on board 
The waiting boat ; his people followed him 
After like farewells, and with many a charge 
Of greeting words from those they left behind, 
To wife or sweetheart, or old friend, in Spain. 
Then, when at dawn the little band beheld 
The signal gun on board the Nina flash, 
And to the tightening sail the ship replied. 
Turning her prow to seaward, and went fcwth 
Slowly into the sunrise — a last look, 
A last farewell it seemed to those who gazed, 
To those on board saluting : but a shout 
Of cheerful courage answered from the beach, 
Where De Arana laughed and waved the flag 
Of the two kingdoms, and with ringing voice 
Led the gay farewell of the little band. 

It was the fourth day of the opening year 
When thus Columbus spread his homeward sails ; 
At first the land-breeze favoured them, but past 
The sheltering headland Monte Cristi named. 
They came again into the strong east winds 
Which had so helped them on their outward 
voyage 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 



And now perpetual hindered their return. 
On the sixth day the Pinta was descried 
Sweeping towards them right before the wind. 
And coming near, Pinzon his story told 
Excusing to the Admiral, who heard 
With outward calm but inward deep distrust ; 
Then learning from the crew that stores of gold 
They had discovered on these very shores. 
With the next favouring breeze, to the south- 
east 
Followed the coast down to the Rio d'Oro, 
Which he so named because of its gold sands. 
There finding that Pinzon had carried off 
Indians, both youths and girls, against their will 
To sell for slaves in Spain, he gave command 
That they should be restored, with gifts, and 

clothed, 
To their own people ; this Pinzon refused, 
But forced to yield after high words, remained 
Strengthened in hatred of the Admiral's rule. 
Leaving the shores of Hayti, on their way. 
At many wonderful islands he made pause ; 
But spring drew on, and when light westerly 

winds 
Rose, and grew strong and steady, these delays 



214 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Angered so much the mariners that he left 
All further search for the great Golden Island, 
And steered direct for Spain. Slow was their 

course 
Across the ocean : checked by dreadful storms 
Or driven before the roaring western gales, 
They lived but at the mercy of the deep 
In their frail open vessels, old and worn 
And all unequal to the incessant strife ; 
And when the Pinta one dark night seemed lost, 
For her too distant lights had disappeared, 
They seemed deserted in a world unknown. 
Shuddering they thought upon the olden tales 
Of ships gone westward never to return. 
Of ocean-spirits with ill demons leagued 
Never to suffer living ship to cross 
The wide deep home. 

As thus the days went by, 
The tempest growing wilder, and all hope 
Of safety for their small ship dying out, 
Columbus to his cabin in the poop 
Withdrew, and by the lamp's unsteady light 
Wrote painfully the story of his voyage 
In brief upon a parchment. This he sealed, 
Inscribed to the two sovereigns, wrapped it close 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 215 

In linen waxed, and in a cake of wax, 

Then placed it in a barrel, which, again 

Closed safely, was set ready on the deck. 

A similar writing in like manner wrapped 

And closed up, was cast overboard, that thus 

Some chronicle might haply be preserved 

To tell in Spain the chiefest and most worthy 

Of his adventures and the western lands. 

He cast this barrel overboard himself, 

And standing Avith both hands upon the stays 

He watched it strike the water into foam, 

Go down an instant and appear again 

Whirling and turning over, then sweep up 

The arching waves, and tossing up and down 

Go slowly out of sight. " Will that be all," 

He thought, '* that shall remain to tell my tale? 

Must my queen read it on the silent page, 

And never listen to the glowing words 

Straight from my heart, which would have told so 

well 
To her quick thought how well I have fulfilled 
My promise to her? would have pictured forth 
To her delighted fancy the strange things, 
Wondrous and beautiful that I have seen ?" 
Then looking at his weary, frightened crew 



ai6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And the poor shivering Indians : " It is hard 

For these whom I took forth against their will ! 

Must I behold them die this dismal death 

Who deem myself their leader, heaven-endowed ? 

These helpless creatures as my trophies come, 

The first-fruits of my Christian embassage, 

Must I lose these ? Must I myself no more 

See my dear sons nor guide them through their 

youth? 
Give me these lives, O Lord, for unto Thee 
All things are possible." 

The ship went up 
Upon the great waves rising swift and strong, 
And down again until the following wave 
Hung overtopping her, and on and on ; 
And the wild shrieking of the tightened ropes 
And the loud hollow roaring overhead 
And crashing of the waters all around, 
Kept all lips silent ; the grey firmament 
Seemed close upon them, morn and eve the sun. 
Invisible, shed a thin, pale yellow glare 
Through the dull grey made lurid. Thus they 

went 
As the winds would, and where they knew not well, 
Till in the thunder and the driving rain, 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 



The cry of " Land ahead ! " rang through the night, 
And lying-to as best they might till sunrise, 
Amidst the yellow morning mists they saw. 
Joyful, the Rock of Cintra, and the mouth 
Of the wide-spreading Tagus. How like home 
It was indeed to work their way along 
Through other ships, to hear familiar speech, 
To see the land on either side, and feel 
The crazy barque go quietly. Even more rejoiced 
The seamen were than when their weary eyes 
Saw the New World dim-looking through the dawn ! 
Up the steep streets and through the admiring 
crowd 
That pressed to see and touch these very men, 
Who had sailed across the demon-haunted seas 
And had come back in safety ; who had done 
The very thing so talked of and despised 
As beyond words impossible, condemned 
Even as an outrage against God Himself — 
Columbus was conveyed, a monarch's guest. 
Bitter the thought that mingled with delight 
In the king's mind, whilst he with open grace 
And royal hospitality received 
The heroic wanderer, whom he might have held 
In his own service to this glorious end ; 



2i8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And whilst he listened to the glowing tale 

Poured forth by that sweet voice which long ago 

Had well convinced him in his inner mind. 

Now secret foes, as formerly, combined 

Against Columbus, stirred by jealousy 

Of Spanish glory and by greed of gold, 

And even his life was aimed at ; but the king 

In princely fashion treated him, besought 

His longer stay, and when he would be gone 

Offered him escort, horses, wagons, mules. 

To enter Spain by land for greater ease 

And safety than by sea. Yet thirst for gold 

And conquest wrought as formerly, to lead 

His nobler self astray. His leave was given 

To send a mighty armament in his name 

To take possession of the new-found lands. 

And set his rule up solid and secure 

Before Columbus crossed the seas again. 

Nor knew the Admiral of those treacherous thoughts 

When he, his crew refreshed, his ships repaired, 

The storms somewhat abated — took his leave 

And spread his sails for Palos de Moguer. 

Meanwhile at Palos, through the winter time 
The rough, tempestuous weather filled the town 
With growing fear ; such frequent terrible storms 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 



Were never known before along that coast, 
And every sailor's hut and every house 
Whence on that fearful voyage had gone forth 
Husband or son, grew sadder with the months ; 
And in St. Mary's convent on the cliff 
The prior so confident once, at every dawn 
With sadder eyes gazed out to the dim west, 
At every sunset made more hopeless watch 
For three dark specks against the crimson sky ; 
And when in March the warm returning spring 
Brought flowers and blossoms and reviving green 
But no news of the adventurers, hope died out 
In dark and sullen sorrow. 

Strong March winds 
After a time returning, ceased again ; 
And at the convent-gate when rising morn 
Made all things cheerful, — with sad wistful eyes, 
Stood Juan Perez, gazing as his wont 
All round the horizon, but could find no sail 
At all upon the sea, and turned about 
To go down into Palos on affairs ; 
But as he turned he heard a childish voice 
Cry, *' Let me go down with you," and Fernando 
Came dancing through the gate, and laid his hand 
Upon the father's frock, who kindly smiled, 



220 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Drawing him round where he might see the sea 
And any boats thereon, and sadly said, 
" The fishermen have all come in betimes, 
Most likely when the tide turned in the night. 
There are no boats, alas ! " Fernando then : 
" You say no boats ! See at the river's mouth 
There is a strange ship lying. " His companion 
Started and turned. " Yes, yes, one of the ships ! 
Bless thee, my child ! Pray God that he be there ! " 
" My father's ship ! We will run quickly down 
To meet him first." 

" My boy, it is too far, 
We must go soberly." And he gently checked 
The eager child who pulled him by the hand. 
But his own steps went faster, and he scarce 
Could stay his strides to suit the little feet 
Which had more will than power to hasten on. 
Now the strange ship weighed anchor, spread her 

sails, 
And turned her head and slowly moved up stream ; 
But soon the high rocks hid her from their sight 
As they went down their long and sandy way 
Beneath the fir-trees, leading to the town. 
On entering Palos, at St. George's church 
They stopped, and bade the sacristan prepare 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 



When he should hear for certain that Columbus 
Was come back safe, to have the church-bells ring 
Their loudest, gladdest welcome ; but if sad 
The news, if he were dead or lost, to toll 
The solemn minute strokes. Then hurrying on 
They sought Fernandez Garcia at his house. 
Who hastened to go with them ; farther down 
They called for the Pinzons, and met Rodriguez, 
Pilot of Lepe, their old messenger. 
Full of the news ; and ever as they went 
One and another townsman joined the throng, 
And many an anxious woman, for by this 
All knew that but one vessel had returned. 
Neither the Admiral's vessel nor Pinzon's, 
And must the Nina be, yet was square-rigged. 
The sound of shouting reached them from below, 
And awe and wonder with the sorrow mixed 
And with the exultation ; it was like 
The coming back of someone from the dead. 
Fernando and the prior went hurrying on 
Foremost amidst the crowd, and some strong man, 
Likely Rodriguez, caught Fernando up 
And carried him, for he could run no more. 

Down to the river half the town had come 
And saw the Nina lying broadside there, 



222 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Taking her sails down, drawing in her oars 

And casting out her anchor ; on the poop 

The Admiral himself in rich attire, 

And tawny men behind him, scantly clad. 

Wearing tall feather crowns and golden gauds, 

Gazing with plaintive eyes on the strange scene. 

Some of the crowd into the water pressed, 

And eager welcomes, questions, kisses, tears. 

Were breathless mingled ; and yet louder shouts 

As down the ship's side slow Columbus came 

And stepped upon the plank that reached the 

shore, 
Roughened and aged with all his toils, but crowned 
With manly joy. The mariners leaped off 
Into the water, stretching eager hands, 
Asking for friends, embracing wife or child, 
And giving hasty answers ; whilst the prior 
Embraced Columbus, and the little boy 
Sprang with a cry into his father's arms. 
Kissed the bronzed face, and laid his curly head 
Into his neck contented ; and the people 
Shouted afresh ; and ever overhead 
Rang on the chiming of St, George's bells. 
Columbus and the child moved slowly on, 
He and his sailors first, and then the prior 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 



Leading the people, and all went together 

Up to St. George's church to render thanks, 

Mingled with tears for those who came not home, 

And for Pinzon still tossing on the sea 

Or maybe lost already with his crew. 

When prayers and psalms were over, on the steps 

At the church-door Columbus stood, and told 

To the assembled people a short tale 

Of the great voyage, far stranger to their ears 

Than legends of the miracles of saints ; 

Next he made haste to forward to the queen. 

Who was at Barcelona with the court. 

The news of his arrival ; and then cared 

For his poor Indians, three of whom lay sick 

With the great hardships and unwonted cold 

Of their long passage, whereof one had died. 

For all his other cares a day sufficed. 

And he departed with his little son 

Taking six Indians and his treasured stores 

From the New World. Still, as they journeyed on, 

At every town alcalde, at the gates 

With the chief citizens, awaited him. 

And when he left it took him forth again 

With like observances ; the common crowd 

Ever flocked after with the best, to fill 



224 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Their ear and fancy with the latest words 
Of his strange travels. 

So to Seville come, 
Diego met him, and they there abode 
Till he received his summons to the court 
In admiration so expressed, and honour, 
That even his eager heart could ask no more. 
At Seville with deep pity he received 
The tidings of Pinzon's untimely end ; 
Who, driven so far on that tempestuous night 
From his companion ship, had surely deemed 
As well he might, that she so poor and worn 
Could by no miracle weather out the storm. 
And that the Admiral certainly was lost ; 
Then, tempted thus by opportunity 
Easy and unexpected, carried out 
That very treachery Columbus feared. 
He came to Spain, wrote to the king and queen 
That he had found old Asia, and asked leave 
To come to court and tell them all his tale ; 
Then shaped his course for home, and up the Tinto 
Was sailing proudly, when one came on board. 
Who told him of the Admiral's safe return 
And summons to the sovereigns. Struck with 
shame 



RETURN ro SPAIN. 



He landed far from Palos, and went home 

Alone and secretly, there to receive 

The sovereigns' written word of stern reproach 

And absolute refusal or to see 

Or to hear from him more. Into his heart 

The blow went deep ; this was his one disgrace ; 

For to his blood and temper treachery 

Had been an alien and unthought-of crime ; 

He lay down on his bed, nor spoke nor ate, 

But groaning, in his darkened chamber died. 

In Catalonia east, beside the sea 

Stands Barcelona, from Phoenician days 

Active and great in commerce until now ; 

A strong rebellious city, she maintains 

A large sway on the ocean, and on land 

Holds her own liberties and chartered rights 

Steadfast against intruders ; many-towered 

She looks back on a mountain-girdled plain 

Fertile and fair with gardens of delight ; 

Before her sees the deep-green waters fill 

Her mole-protected harbour where throng close 

The ships of many nations ; to her right 

Steep cliffs command the water ; and beyond, 

The glittering ocean meets the sapphire sky. 

In the first April days her streets were thronged 
15 



926 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

With eager watchers, silence on her piers, 

No voice amongst her ships ; for through the plain 

Slow winds a strange procession to her gates, 

And not a man remains at any toil. 

And not an infant in the quiet house ; 

The mothers bring their babes to door or roof, 

The children slip away to join the crowd 

And be amongst the first to see and shout ; 

Ladies of all degrees in gorgeous show 

Crowd balcony and house-top ; banners wave, 

Flowers thickly woven swing across the streets 

And lie in heaps for casting on the way. 

The young men have gone forth — the youthful 
lords 
Rejoicing in their chivalrous style, attired 
In gold and velvet, on their haughty steeds. 
And with their warlike followers make display 
Of horse and foot, banners and glittering arms, 
And jubilant and sounding instruments. 
They have gone forth in this glad state to meet 
Don Christopher Columbus, Admiral, 
Vice-regal lord of ocean and of land 
In the vast regions of the unknown West ; 
He who a year ago at Santa Fe 
Scarce won the royal sanction to go forth, 



RECEPTION A T BARCELONA. 



Bewailed or mocked at, alien and despised, 

Late counted lost in failure and despair ; 

He who returns a master of success, 

Lord of strange roads, the uncrowned emperor 

Of the rich, vast unknown ; wealth in his hand. 

And tidings on his lips of things till now 

Unguessed at, nor imagined, nor conceived. 

Faint swells the music of his coming, sweet 

To high-strung senses as celestial songs, 

And listening silence settles on the town. 

Slow to the walls, beneath the hazy sun 

Across the flowery valley they have come, 

And entering through the gateway of the fort 

By heavy turrets flanked, wind through the streets 

Between the low red houses. As they pass 

Flowers are cast down in showers before their feet, 

The silence changes into frantic cries. 

First came the soldiers tramping to the sound 

Of warlike music — trumpet, drum, and horn ; 

A troop of horsemen next in shining steel ; 

And then, upborne for every eye to see, 

The scaly lizard, and the turtle's shell, 

Bright- feathered birds set standing as in life, 

Others alive, glancing from side to side 

Silent and fearful. Trays of musky pods ; 



228 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The purple cacao-beans, and brown-skinned yams ; 

Bananas dried ; the huge brown cocoa-nut, 

Its fibrous husk and milk-white flesh displayed ; 

Maize, set like pearls upon a sceptre's head, 

Yellow as amber in its rustling sheaths ; 

Red capsicums, and balls of cotton thread. 

And soft white cotton bursting from dark husks ; 

Blocks of rare minerals and of curious woods ; 

Large pearly shells that gleamed with rainbow 

lights ; 
Cups filled with gold-dust, knots of golden ore ; 
Gold coronet, or band for neck or arm. 
Next came the tawny Indians, with their rude, 
Strange implements of warfare in their hands, 
Painted with gaudy hues as they were wont, 
In feather crowns and golden ornaments. 
When these appeared the clamorous shouting 

ceased, 
And wonder fixed all eyes in breathless awe 
Beholding human beings unlike all, 
Spaniard or Moor or African, ever seen ; 
A silent awe that sudden changed to cries 
Of rapturous rejoicing when appeared 
The reverend white head, the stately form, 
The weather-beaten face both grave and glad, 



RECEP TION AT BA RCEL ON A . 



Of Christopher Columbus, as he rode, 
Proudly escorted by the youthful lords. 
Into the square before the royal hall 
Where waited the two sovereigns. 

On a dais 
In a vast lofty chamber richly hung 
With pictured arras, and the polished floor 
Crossed by embroidered carpets, stood two thrones 
Beneath gold woven curtains ; there in state 
Sat Isabella and her royal spouse. 
Surrounded by the grandest of her dames, 
And in the presence stood the very chief 
Of the nobility of Castile and Leon, 
Of Arragon and Catalonia. 
The jalousies were open, a soft light 
Filled the vast chamber, and the warm, sweet air 
Brought in the various clamour of the crowd, 
The sudden shouts, the silence, and again 
The outbursts of rejoicing that swelled out 
Louder and louder to the very gates. 
Then flew the doors wide open, and came in 
Before all else Columbus, Admiral ; 
Then the proud nobles who attended him, 
And after them the Indians, and then slaves 
Carrying his various treasures on their heads. 



230 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Up the long room, simple and proud he came, 
The sense of his achievement in his gait, 
His head uncovered, and upon his face 
The serious smile which those who loved him, 

loved. 
On such an errand coming, he appeared 
As one of the world's fathers, Adam or Noah, 
As one for whom the world was first create. 
Who had beheld the glory of its dawn. 
The sovereigns rose, and when he would have 

knelt 
Queen Isabella stretching out her hand 
Forbade such humbleness from one so great. 
Saying : " Most welcome are you, Admiral, 
Greater our joy to see you here again 
Than even for the news of a new world 
Which you have brought us." But he willingly 

knelt, 
Kissing their hands with joy. They raised him 

up 
And made him sit beside them on the dais, 
An honour beyond honours ; all the court 
Pressed round to hear him speak. Amongst them 

stood 
De Talavera, the Grand Cardinal, 



RECEPTION AT BA RCEL ON A . 231 

De Quintanilla, his old friend De Deza, 

Las Casas, Peter Martyr — all such men 

As any man were proud should hear him tell 

His best achievements ; and then eagerly 

As a glad schoolboy at his mother's side, 

And gravely as some prophet in old times, 

Through many hours he told his passionate tale. 

And ended thus : " These gentle savages, 

Simple as childlike, I have not baptized 

But brought them, madam, in their harmless faith 

For your good pleasure, first-fruits from your 

hand 
Of the great harvest waiting ; white the field, 
The labourers only wanting. As I came 
Up the long valley of the Guadalquivir 
And saw but eighty cities where of old 
So many hundreds flourished, I rejoiced 
That your new kingdoms should receive from you 
Cities, not lose them, should be won for you 
Clean of all bloodshed. Not as conqueror 
Shall I go out again at your command 
But as a father to his waiting home. 
And more than I have yet done will I do, 
I will find yet new countries, nor desist 
Till Christ fill all the world from sea to sea." 



232 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, 

" Madam, my tale is done. Would I could tell 
As readily the fervour of my love, 
Faithful and duteous, to yourself, your spouse. 
And all your royal house ; my heartfelt thanks 
Beyond the use of words." Again he bent 
His lips upon her hand. With swimming eyes. 
With clasped and upraised hands, the sovereigns 

knelt, 
And all their court knelt with them. Then the 

priests 
And waiting choristers, to sweet instruments 
With mixed harmonious voices loudly sang 
" Te Deum Laudamus." The old hymn 
Went sounding up to heaven. Then to the house, 
The goodly house assigned him, he was taken 
With tumult of rejoicing. At no time 
Could he go forth but great crowds followed him 
Gazing and curious ; and King Ferdinand 
Riding in state, upon his right Prince Juan, 
Would bring upon his left the Admiral. 
The nobles made great feasts and festivals 
To honour him, and with each other vied 
In lavishness of grandeur and display ; 
By the Grand Cardinal he was received 
Royally, even as a prince might be — 



RECEPTION A T BARCELONA. 



At a great banquet, midst the highest guests — 
Set on his right hand, in a chair of state. 
The sovereigns granted him a coat-of-arms. 
For his crest choosing islands on the waves. 
And leave to carry with it their own crests, 
A castle and a lion, on his shield. 

The tidings of these great discoveries thrilled 
All the known nations with an awe-struck joy 
Throughout their borders. Priestly Rome rejoiced 
In opportunity of wider sway, 
And pagan souls brought in to the true faith ; 
The learned men long-time expecting this, 
In scientific prophecy fulfilled ; 
Monarch and noble, and the general people, 
In visions of like fortunes for themselves : 
For all things now seemed possible to all, 
As if they had beheld another world. 
Larger, more glorious, made before their eyes. 



CANTO X. 

RETURN TO HAYTI— RETURN TO 
SPAIN— THIRD VOYAGE. 

I N late September, on the sheltering bay, 

And by the piers of Cadiz, day and night 
Three loftier ships, and fourteen caravels 
Received their burdens, and through all the town 
Perpetual thronged a bold excited crowd ; 
Both lookers-on and those twelve hundred souls 
Selected for this new voyage to the West 
By the two crowns ordained. Soldiers were there, 
Merchants and priests, peasants and artisans, 
Women and children ; also gentlemen 
Of good birth and good breeding, as De Ojeda 
Who rode so fast with the queen's signet ring ; 
Others of baser nature, mere adventurers. 
All crowded to the ships, the busy streets 
And busy harbour rang with noise and zeal ; 
The Admiral in the midst with his proud son 
234 



RETURN- TO If A VTl. 23S 

Controlled and ordered all. 

On the last noon, 
When labour paused a little, and all hands 
Sought some repose, he with his son Diego 
And younger brother, turning from the crowd 
Walked out upon the sea-wall, and he stood. 
And gazing earnestly across the sea, 
Said to his brother, " Dost thou call to mind 
The talk we had together in the dark 
The evening this my eldest son was bom ? " 
And laid his hand on young Diego's shoulder ; 
" How I declared my rooted certainty 
Of western lands, and my assured belief 
That one day I should reach them by the sea ? 
Visions, thou saidst, and with Correa laughed, 
That I should deem them as within the bounds 
Of sober purpose. All that then I dreamed 
Has now been done, but on this very Mole 
When first I sought in Spain a helping hand, 
I have stood dreaming it was all a dream, 
And so forlorn of every outward hope 
Or sign of help, that sometimes a cold shade 
As of despair assailed me ; then the waves, 
Rolling from westward, beating regular 
In ordered cadence on this rocky wall, 



236 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And ever fresh from human guile or fear, 

Reproached me as unfaithful, and I felt 

That all this," and he waved his outstretched hand 

Towards the fleet, " would surely come to pass. 

All this and more has come, but in my joy 

I sorrow for Bartholomew, my pride 

In any earthly thing is but as half 

Unless he brotherly share it ; this the most 

For he has held my every scheme as his, 

And with his whole heart would have furthered 

this, 
And now have sailed with us exultant forth. 
Whether earth hides him, or the seas have drowned. 
We know not, and this only cloud hangs dark, 
Shadowing the perfect triumph of these days." 

Before a fair wind in the sunny glow 
Of the next noontide sailed the white-winged fleet, 
Freighted with a new city, carrying out 
Twelve hundred living souls across the sea, 
Leaving unwilling thousands on the land — 
From that same Cadiz where, nine years ago, 
Columbus landed with his little son. 

Whilst still the echoes of that triumph rang 
In all men's ears, he whose uncertain fate 
Columbus mourned, was journeying to Spain ; 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 237 

Shipwreck, imprisonment, and poverty 

Had wrought together so, that only now 

He brought the message of the English king, 

That he would help Columbus to his voyage. 

In France he heard the wild and wondrous tale 

Of the New World ; and then in Seville learned 

He came too late, his brother had gone forth 

Already on his second westward voyage ; 

To him with swelling heart Diego told 

Of all his father's honours and success, 

And the triumphant sailing of the fleet. 

Nor was it long before Bartholomew 

With his two nephews, now Prince Juan's pages. 

Went up by royal summons to the court. 

Where he was known already for a man 

Strong and sagacious, of unflinching will, 

A bold, skilled navigator ; and in spring 

The sovereigns chose him to command the ships 

Sent with supplies to the new colonies ; 

And for his brother's sake to give him aid 

In government and voyages of research 

And the good comfort of his company. 

Bartholomew and his three ships went forth. 
And crossed the seas, and by the verdant plains. 
The rocky headlands, and the many bays 



238 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Of Hispaniola gently held their way. 

But ere they reached the point where by the charts 

They were to find the settlement, they saw 

In front of the high mountains and the plains 

And circling round a lake, a half-built town. 

A stone wall stood about it, and within 

Houses of stone, a church amidst the palms, 

And lesser wooden dwellings ranged in streets, 

A fortress and great store-house ; everywhere 

Spaniards and the brown natives in the sun. 

So they cast anchor, and whilst yet they gazed, 

Forth from the wooden pier beside the town 

A long canoe came gliding through the surf ; 

In the stern sat Diego, on his head 

A hat of palm-leaf, sitting on either side 

Luxan and Carvajal. Bartholomew 

In wondering joy received them, and they told 

Here had Columbus founded the new town, 

Having abandoned Fort Nativity ; 

And now had sailed upon another voyage 

Of fresh discovery on the Cuban coast. 

Leaving his brother ruler. 

** It is time " 
Diego said, when they sat down to rest 
At evening in the governor's stone-built house, 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 239 

" That thou wert here. So large a company 

Of inexperienced settlers in a land 

New and exciting, such a restless troop 

Of young hot-blooded and high-handed nobles 

All wild with dreams of endless stores of gold, 

Is a great charge, and to my nature strange 

Beyond my powers, and altogether wrong." 

" But tell me," said Bartholomew, "why you are 

here 
And not at Fort Nativity, where the boys 
Told me their father left the settlement 
On his return to Spain ? " Diego answered : 
" 'T is the beginning of sorrows. We sailed forth 
Across the mighty ocean full of joy 
And proud expectance, finding on our way 
The beautiful Antilles, the great sea 
And islands of the terrible Carribees, 
And everywhere new dangers, new delights ; 
Then drawing towards the coast beside the river 
Where Christopher left the fortress, eagerly 
We look to meet the comrades left behind, 
A few amongst strange people, and we thought 
What great delight would fill them when they saw 
Our fleet at morning ; for the sun had set 
Before we turned the nearest cliffs, and lay 



240 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Perhaps a half-league from the river's mouth, 

For in the darkness it were vain to tempt 

The treacherous reefs. We anchored for the night 

And fired two guns to signal our approach, 

But none came out to us, no gun replied, 

There was no light nor any sign of life, 

And we watched anxiously through many hours. 

Then a canoe stole out, by Indians manned. 

Who when we much persuaded came on board, 

And sad the tale they told. Not one remained 

Of all our comrades left. Some in disputes 

Among themselves were slain ; some had roamed 

off 
And taken Indian wives in distant villages ; 
In bloody raids from warlike mountain tribes 
Many were killed — amongst them De Arana, 
Upon whose side the chief Guacana fought, 
Was overpowered and wounded ; cruel wrongs 
Done by the white men. to their Indian friends, 
And a revenge as cruel on the whites : 
Thus all were gone, the fortress sacked and burned. 
This was the welcome to our Christopher ! 
And when he prayed the good chief to receive 
Some image of the Virgin that should hang 
About his neck, and he repulsed in fear 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 241 

The gracious offering, hearing the white men 

Held it as holy — Christopher was grieved 

Almost to tears. 

We left that mournful place 

Mournful and fever-haunted, and came here. 

Upon this lovely plain we raised our huts 

With cheerful labour, tilled and sowed our fields, 

Laid out our streets and squares, and named our 

town 

Isabella, thus to honour our great queen. 

To raise the church was Christopher's dearest care, 

To Father Boyle he trusted it, and me. 

And we worked well, and for the starry feast 

Of Bethlehem's royal Visitants were prepared. 

First came the consecration, then High Mass 

With robes, processions, swinging incense, chants. 

And all the due solemnities observed. 

The wondering Indians watched, and understood 

That this was our religion, and when swelled 

The bell's melodious voice, their souls were struck 

With mingled joy and fear ; they wept, they knelt. 

They laid their heads in dust, and seemed to think 

The voice of the Great Spirit spoke to them. 

Short were our joyful hours ! Sore maladies 

Broke out amongst us, weary from the voyage, 
16 



242 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Not knowing the new climate or its needs, 

Sore pressed for food, and our young gay hidalgos, 

Not used to labour, nor to much obedience, 

Gloomy and discontented. Worst of all, 

On Christopher himself the fever fell, 

And he was stricken down for many weeks ; 

Yet rested not, bvit ever ruled and planned ; 

Then hearing from the Indians many tales 

About Cibao, a great land of gold 

Beyond the southern mountains, he sent out 

A band with De Ojeda to explore, 

And these returning after many a toil 

Brought gold-dust from the streams, and from the 

^ rocks 
Knots of the shining kingly ore itself. 
All this determined him to go himself 
And choose the spots for mining, and good sites 
For stations of defence. But on the eve 
Of his departure there was found sure proof — 
Canst thou believe it, brother ? — of a plot 
Against his life, contrived by Bernal Diaz — 
One of the bolder and unscrupulous sort 
Yet holding here an office of great trust — 
To seize the ships not yet returned to Spain, 
Return there with them, and by slanderous tales 



RETURN TO HAYTI. 243 

Turn the queen's mind against him. In the buoy 
Of a ship homeward bound the writing lay. " 
Then said Bartholomew: " And what did Christo- 
pher? 
Hang them all sure, and Bernal Diaz first ?" 
" No, Bernal Diaz' rank placed him beyond 
The reach of common justice. Lightly he dealt 
With the inferior mutineers, poor fools, 
Too lightly far, and sent their chief to Spain 
To take his trial there. 

That traitor gone. 
Upon his venture Christopher set forth, 
And took with him four hundred well-armed men, 
And all equipments for the forts and mines. 
Leaving me here chief ruler. Having crossed 
On the first day the wide and wooded plain. 
He set in front his band of cavalry. 
The young hidalgos clad in burnished steel, 
And with their waving flags and trumpets' sound, 
And troops of Indians hanging round their rear, 
They went straight up the mountains, turning east 
As they rose higher ; the advancing band 
Clearing the way, and making a rough road. 
And thus ascending to the highest pass. 
Called by us now the Pass of the Hidalgos, 



344 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, 

Christopher coming forward to the front, 
Beheld as it were Paradise ; a wide vale 
Lay sloping down before him, grand and fair 
As is Granada's valley. Far as eye 
Could reach it spread in grandeur, soft, adorned 
With trees gigantic, falling streams that flowed 
Into calm affluent rivers, making way 
Majestic south and east ; river and vale 
Forest and mountain lessening to the sight, 
Distinct in the clear air, till they became 
Dim with extreme of distance. Everywhere 
Stood light and gay the Indian villages 
And cultivated fields ; and on his right 
Rose the rough mountains of the golden ores. 
His swelling heart rejoiced, and that broad vale 
He named the Royal Vega. Everywhere 
The cheerful native people, and the chiefs 
Received them even as angels, even as gods, 
Loving them and yet fearing. 

Long it were 
To tell thee now how everything went well 
In that excursion ; how the youthful lords 
Ready and brave in any warlike task 
Or difficult adventure, for the time 
Forgot all discontent. When they returned 



RETURN TO HA YTt. 245 

We showed good progress made about the town, 
And in the fields and gardens, but all else 
Was but a mournful tale. The fever still 
Striking our people down, half our stores spoiled, 
None coming out from Spain ; and the poor Indians, 
Having learned to dread us whom they once received 
Joyful, as benefactors and as friends. 
Bringing but little corn. Thus were we forced 
To hold even priests and nobles to such rules 
Of work and famine-rations as we framed 
For all the colonists, and ourselves no less 
Strictly obeyed — and then of wounded pride, 
Scant food, unwonted toil, and broken hopes. 
Many hidalgos died, both old and young. 
And on our heads the whole reproach is cast. 
Thus it begins ; God knows how it will end ! " 
" Then thou art here sole ruler ?" 

"With the aid 
Of a good council — Sanchez de Carvajal, 
Coronel and Luxan, and Father Boyle. 
He is however never on my side. 
And now that Christopher has gone forth again, 
The stronger and less scrupulous colonists 
Refuse me all obedience. Those who work 
At the hill stations rule things as they will, 



246 CHRONICLES OP CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Led in all license by the Spanish general, 
Who is a man to whom no thing is good, 
And no good thing is sacred. Spaniards ever 
Bear ill the rule of strangers, and from me, 
Who have not fame nor rank like Christopher, 
Nor lived like him for many years in Spain, 
They will not take it ; and their ill deeds. 
Passing in cruelty words of mine to tell. 
Amongst the Indians, have made dangerous foes 
Of all the bravest, and destroyed the rest. 
And now the general hurries back to Spain 
In fear of Christopher's return, and leaves 
None here to rule the lawless soldiery." 
Then said Bartholomew, " But for how long 
Has he gone forth, and left the land and thee 
To this unbridled folk ? " 

" Nay, nay, he thought 
All discontent appeased, and sure means taken 
To keep good order here. He has gone forth 
To explore in Cuba, the vast continent 
He has discovered. Very much he fears 
Lest other nations, following on our track, 
May pass us by, make fresh discoveries 
And rob him of the crown of his achievements ; 
Then love of ocean wanderings and the thirst 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 



For new adventures and new sights and scenes 
Draw him away, as memories of old lands 
Draw many another home." 

" Aye, ever thus 
It is within him as his very life." 
"Yes," said Diego, " but the man whose house 
Is yet abuilding should remain to watch, 
If he would have it well and surely built. 
It was not well imagined from the first 
To send this mixed and ill-assorted crowd. 
We should have first built towns and villages, 
Reared flocks and herds and tilled the fertile soil, 
Nor looked at all to the uncertain stores 
Sent out from Spain ; lived kindly with the natives. 
Persuading them to traffic, and to learn 
Our better ways in industries and arts. 
Then when the land abounded in its stores. 
And year by year our numbers had increased 
To power and safety, we might well have turned 
To the great work of setting up our rule 
Firmly throughout the land ; have worked the 

mines 
Of gold and costly stones ; grown sugar-cane ; 
Planted new forests of these various trees 
Whose fine-hued woods alike are serviceable 



248 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

For ornament or use — and Christopher 

Might have gone forth to find new lands and seas, 

And win fresh glory after his own heart, 

Nor left misfortune here " — His brother then : 

' ' One man is gifted one way, and another 

Unlike and unlike gifted, is as good, 

As fine a man as he, and I know none, 

Nor ever have known, like our Christopher." 

" Thou comest next to him," Diego said, 

" And were I Christopher I should at once 

Appoint thee adelantado, 't is thy place." 

" And right well I could serve him ! Would to 

God 
We had him back here, safe and sound, again ! " 
Summer had passed, the early autumn waned, 
But still Columbus came not, nor sent word. 
And his impatient brothers watched in fear ; 
When suddenly a joyful rumour spread 
That three small ships were coming from the east 
And without doubt they were the Admiral's ships. 
The brothers hastened to the pile-built quay, 
And in their swiftest skiff shot through the surf 
To meet the caravels, but on coming near 
The Admiral's vessel, when their Indians held 
Their dripping paddles still, and the canoe 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 



With slackening movement glided to her side, 

Their eager eyes that searched each vessel's crew 

And the gaunt faces looking from the decks, 

Could nowhere find their brother, and they learned 

He lay in a deep swoon ; for, over-wrought 

By labour and long watching, when at last 

He found his ships in safety, all his force 

Suddenly left him, and he lay as dead, 

Only slight quiverings round his eyes and mouth 

Giving assurance of the life within. 

They carried him on shore and to his house 

Amidst a grieving crowd, and whilst he lay 

Unconscious on his bed, and faithful friends 

Watched long for signs of re-awakening life, 

The mariners told their tale. 

First of the storms : 
If they had ever thought there were such storms 
Possible anywhere — such whirling winds, 
Such sheets of purple lightning crossed by darts 
Of jagged blinding fire, hour after hour 
Filling both earth and heaven ; such awful sounds 
Of ceaseless thunder roaring terrible ; 
Such rains — nay, streams — nay, sheets of water 

pouring 
Continual from the sky — nothing on earth, 



250 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, 

Rewards or penalties, had brought them there 
Away from their own land ! 

Further they told 
Of mountainous Jamaica, grand and fair ; 
Her waterfalls white springing to the sea, 
Her forests interchanged with fertile vales, 
Lively with villages, where Indians dwelt. 
More warlike and more vigorous than as yet 
They had beheld, meeting these unknown beings 
"With boldest opposition. Checked at once 
By the strong arrows from the Spanish bows, 
And by their fierce dogs frightened, for like beasts 
Or of such size they had not seen before — 
They understood at last the friendly mind 
In which the Admiral came. Here he set up, 
As was his wont, the Holy Crucifix 
Whereby he took possession of the land 
For his two sovereigns in the name of Christ. 
Along the Cuban coast, through brackish swamps 
And slime-encumbered channels, slow they crept. 
Through brown clear waters, under the arched roots 
Of numberless mangroves, death-exhaling trees, 
Where alligators reared their armoured heads 
And grim jaws from the mud ; where venomous 
snakes 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 



Hung motionless from the boughs, and stinging 

things 
Threatened the foot, or haunted the thick air ; 
The sea a sickly white or poisonous green. 
By wilderness of impenetrable reeds 
Tangled and tall they passed. Their food had 

failed, 
By the sea-water and long keeping spoiled, 
And no fresh water. 

Another time 
They came into a tract of fairy isles, 
Scattered for leagues upon a crystal sea, 
Gem-like and green or spread in glittering sands, 
Or rising in low hills by forests crowned — 
So exquisite, so fresh, so sweet with flowers 
And spicy shrubs, so gay with singing birds 
And rainbow-tinted butterflies in clouds. 
They named them The Queen's Gardens. 

Other where 
Along the balmy shores of Ornofay, 
Beside the wide and blue-black ocean, stood 
Well-peopled villages amidst lofty trees 
Hung with the fruit of thickly-clustered vines. 
Beneath whose wild luxuriance after dark 
The natives danced to music soft and dull, 



252 CHROmCLES OP CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Singing monotonous songs. On all this coast 
They were received with joy and reverence, 
For from the north the tidings had been spread 
Of heaven-descending beings who had come 
To bless the Indian peoples. Here they saw 
The worship of the Zemes, lesser gods 
Of elements and seasons. Here it was 
That having gone on shore at early dawn 
To set up a great Crucifix to claim 
The place for Christ and Spain, and then with- 
drawn 
Into the solemn coolness of the trees, 
Lofty and still, to celebrate the Mass— 
There gathered in the shade a silent band 
Of Indians, gravely waiting till the end. 
When there came forward an old reverend man, 
Clad in white flowing garments like a priest. 
He spoke long with Columbus, calling it well 
To worship the Great Spirit ; charging him 
Who was a mighty warrior in command 
Of mighty warriors, to beware the sins 
Of arrogance and pride, for that all men 
Dying were taken, if unjust and cruel. 
To a place dark and hopeless ; if in peace 
And justice they had lived, into delights 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 253 

And happiness forever. *' Therefore then, 

If thou art mortal, if thou hast due thoughts 

Of death and the hereafter, use thy power 

To no man's hurt, nor do thou any wrong 

To those that wrong not thee. For all men's gods, 

Our own Great Spirit, and the white man's God 

Alike are just and terrible." Columbus 

In reverence kissed his hand, and much rejoiced 

Over this evidence of the simple faith 

These untaught peoples carried in their souls 

Ready for full conversion to the Truth. 

Sailing again in vague and eager quest 
Of the famed Golden Island, they were driven 
By stress of weather on Jamaica's coast. 
And in the occasional calms and gentler airs 
Often the friendly caciques came on board 
With gifts and timely aid, and to enquire 
From the interpreters the things of Spain. 
Few were their tranquil days, even when they 

cleared 
Jamaica's troubled waters labouring still 
In furious tempests, and their straining ships 
Leaking, nigh water-logged. Thus toiling on 
Often they lost their bearings nor could tell 
What seas they sailed, yet ever held their course 



254 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

By Hayti's southern coast, and when at last 
The sky grew clear and the wind fell, they lay 
North of the Island's eastern cape, Cabron, 
Discovered by them on their way from Spain. 
Here, the worst dangers past, the worst toils done. 
So great had been the Admiral's fatigues, 
Watching by day and night, scarce knowing sleep, 
That with the sudden ease his strength gave way, 
He sank into a deep and death-like trance. 
And his scared people with all possible speed 
Brought him to Isabella. This the tale 
The weary mariners told. 

The hours passed by. 
When from his death-like trance Columbus woke, 
His slow-unclosing eyes beside him saw 
Bartholomew's stern face, and watched it light 
With sudden joy like sunshine on a rock, 
Whilst his own spirit with an answering joy. 
Gazed at him still and childlike. Week by week 
He lay in silence, but when peace and rest 
Had brought some little strength, he could refrain 
From speech no longer, and with lifted hand — 
" Listen," he said, " My brothers ! I have sailed 
Far, far along the Asian shores, nor doubt 
I soon shall win the straits which join these seas 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 



To the great Indian waters lying round 
The Aurea Chersonesus. Thence shall sail 
Westward by Diaz Mendez' Cape of Storms, 
Guinea and Senegal, and that long coast 
The boast of Portugal, and by the Gates 
Of ancient Hercules triumphant close 
The perfect circuit of the rounded world. 
A coming home that shall excel the first 
As the full summer glory puts to shame 
The colder, paler light of early spring." 
Thus he rejoicing spoke. 

From this time forth 
Anxieties and troubles never ceased : 
The Admiral with unresting energy. 
Even on the sick bed where for months he lay, 
Bartholomew, by him appointed head 
Next to himself, Adelantado styled — 
Strove ceaselessly with mutiny and wrong. 
Strong men continually turned to ill 
What they had best intended, and that ill 
Still fructifying further, frequent forced 
Stern deeds upon them, and harsh-seeming rule ; 
Severe requital of their people's crimes ; 
Heavy exactions from the native chiefs. 
Who, save Guacana, banded in a league 



2S6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Of uttermost hostility to the whites, 

By difficult persuasion were brought in 

To peaceful treaties — and not Caonabo 

Lord of the Golden Hills. Him De Ojeda 

Snared lion-like in his fastnesses ; he owned 

In him alone a higher than himself 

Amongst the Spaniards, and ere many months 

Sickened and died of his captivity. 

Forts were set up to awe the pleasant vales, 

The gold-mines were unworked, the fields untilled. 

Every stern act and every sad event 

And other men's misdeeds, in tangled skein, 

By deep and bitter malice were so told 

In Spain by speech and letter, as to seem 

Clear evidence of the solemn charges made 

Against the Admiral to the Sovereign Pair. 

With many kinds of baseness he was charged • 

With keeping back the treasure of the crowns 

For his own purposes, and with enslaving 

And selling into slavery many Indians 

For the enrichment of his private purse ; 

With favouring his own friends, though unworthy ; 

With harsh injustice to the Spanish nobles 

And all who stood in favour with the crowns ; 

And with assuming more than royal powers, 
27 



RETURN TO HAYTI. 257 

A royal retinue, a royal state, 

And manners insolent ; with cruelty 

In his discharge of justice. Some of those 

Whom he had kindliest used and most befriended, 

Witnessed to shameful falsehoods without shame, 

And even the helpless Indians being taught 

To think their many sufferings sprang from him. 

In poor pathetic anger joined their word 

To the injurious tale. 

To meet these charges, 
To speak himself to Isabella's heart, 
And urge his colony's many pressing needs 
So falsely told, so poorly served before," 
Resolved him to depart at once for Spain ; 
Appointing first, as Chief Judge of the Island, 
Francis Roldan, who heretofore had seemed 
A man most trustworthy, of a strong, clear wit — 
Worthy to be Chief Judge, but was at heart 
Unscrupulous, ambitious, and became 
A traitor and a leader of revolt. 

Threatened, maligned, Columbus came to Spain, 
But here a royal welcome he received 
From the two sovereigns ; every mark of trust. 
The highest public honours — making plain 
That neither Isabella nor her spouse 



258 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Did those assaults disturb, nor shake their faith 
In their long-trusted servant. Large estates 
In Hayti and in Spain, titles and rights 
Making him equal of their old grandees, 
They gave to him for ever, and his heirs ; 
And added to his proud armorial bearings 
This prouder motto : 

A Castilla y a Leon 
Nuevo Mundo dio Colon. 

To Castile and to Leon a New "World Columbus 

gave. 
They for the colony promised liberal aid ; 
But wedding festivals and lavish dowers 
For their new married children, costly wars 
By Ferdinand waged in Italy and France, 
And aid to foreign allies, in quick stream 
Emptied the royal treasuries. Ships were scarce ; 
New leaders on the seas new countries found 
As fresh and full of promise ; the new wars 
And the new countries, and Old Italy 
Gay and romantic, drew to them alike 
All bold or chivalrous spirits ; little gold 
And little honour came from that rich West 
So proudly vaunted once ; the Admiral's sons 



RETURN TO HA YTI. 



Were taunted in the streets with his vain boasts, 

His sad and failing fortunes. Isabella, 

For ever thwarted by the niggard care 

And cold reluctance of her officers, 

From her own coffers gave with liberal hand 

To stay the colony's most pressing needs, 

Both ships and stores ; and sorrowing in her heart 

Over her gentle Indians and their fate, 

Made for their welfare wise and generous laws 

For general order in the mines and fields, 

The commerce and the dealings with the state. 

Official zeal and jealousies and craft 
With harsh contentions filled the Admiral's life, 
Deep weariness fell upon him, he resolved 
To strive no longer, but commit his schemes 
Of fresh discovery to Bartholomew, 
And make a home with his two sons, and rest. 
But heavy griefs had come upon the queen, 
Her cup of sorrow had been filled as full 
And of as bitter waters as are drunk 
By any lowliest mother : her one son, 
Not yet a twelvemonth's bridegroom, the first heir 
Of those once separate kingdoms now combined 
Into one nation — Spain, also first heir 
Of the magnificent West — passed from his bride, 



»6o CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

His mother's arms, his great inheritance ; 
Not royal hopes nor happy youthful love 
Could stay his footsteps from their early grave : 
Her daughter Joan, unloved in wedlock bands, 
Of wavering intellect, grew darker still 
And wandered farther into the sad land 
Of dulled intelligence : the youthful bride 
Of Portugal, her daughter best beloved, 
Bore a fair son and died. In such sad days 
Columbus had no heart to leave his queen 
And her loved service, but in lonely thought, 
And ever brooding on his many schemes. 
Imagined that some wonderful new success 
Might rouse and stir her fancy, and avail 
Her heavy sorrows somewhat to beguile ; 
And he obtained her leave to sail again 
For his great continent Cuba, there to found 
Fresh colonies, and on his outward way 
Seek out a wonderful country of rich gems 
Near the equator, told of by Ferrer, 
A learned lapidary skilled in gems. 

Before he sailed he ordered his affairs : 
For his two sons he had no care, the queen 
Said, " They have been good servants to my son 
And were beloved by him, give them to me. 



THIRD VOYAGE. 261 

And I will have them ever near myself." 

She took Fernando for her page, Diego 

She raised to a more honourable post, 

Making him Governor of all her house, 

Where faithfully he served her till her death. 

His cherished rights Columbus made secure 

In Spain and in the Indies ; placed in trust 

In Genoa, in Old St. George's Bank, 

The documents of those rights ; monies to found 

A family of his kin to carry on 

His name where he was born, perpetually ; 

And for the poor folk of his native town ; 

Other large sums, to lie and make increase 

For his great armament, when he should lead 

A new Crusade, according to his vow. 

When at last ships were found, pressed for his 
service. 
Slowly both crews and colonists came in, 
And, by the saddest word he ever spoke, 
Their insufficient numbers were filled up 
By convicts from the galleys and the mines. 
Half-pardoned, and bound over to fulfil 
A certain term of work ; and thus he sailed. 
Thus manned, thus served ; to the last hour pursued 
By bitter jealousies and ungenerous strife. 



262 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Not without company of friends he went : 
A kinsman of his own, Carlo Colombo, 
His comrade of old days at Cordova, 
Don Pedro de Arana, and besides 
Sanchez de Carvajal, through many years 
A loyal follower, a steadfast friend. 

To Hayti's southern coast the Ozema flows. 
And on its banks Bartholomew has raised, 
As the two brothers formerly had planned, 
A second Isabella, afterwards 
As San Domingo known ; not distant far 
From Hayna's rocky shores and new-found mines 
Yielding abundant gold — and hither bound, 
But by a widely sweeping southern course. 
The Admiral departed on his voyage. 
Past Herro, leeward of the Cape de Verdes, 
On unknown seas and by an unknown track 
He came through heavier airs into the calms 
That burn along the Equator ; deadly calms 
Sultry and suffocating ; sultry fogs, 
Death-dealing sunshine, fever and despair ; 
And never found the island rich in gems. 
Making slow way out of those dreadful calms, 
To north and north-west steering, they beheld 
Three shining pointed summits of an island rise 



THIRD VOYAGE. 263 

Before them on the horizon ; drawing near 

And seeing those three lofty points were one, 

Joined at their base, in solemn joy Columbus 

Christened the isle La Santa Trinidad — 

A land of woods and streams — Upon their left 

The rough coasts of the southern continent rose. 

By strong west winds, and by strong currents driven 

Along the tossing ever-troubled Straits, 

They swept into a wide and peaceful sea, 

The Gulf of Paria, whose encircling shores 

Lay on the westward far beyond their sight, 

And still Columbus thought what lands he saw 

Were also islands, though around the ships 

At times wide tracts of freshest water lay, 

Such as flow out and float upon the sea 

Only from rivers of great continents. 

In those calm waters, by those peaceful shores, 

They lingered many a day in needful rest ; 

Then through the Dragon's Mouth, another strait 

Of rocks and rushing waters, westward bore 

Along the coast of Pearls. 

Here far ahead 
They saw great mountains and continuous land : 
At this Columbus wondered, and there flashed 
Into his mind the strange exciting thought, 



264 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

' ' Is this still Asia ? Those the Cuban coasts 
Sweeping and curving down from Ornofay ? 
And those fresh waters floating on the salt, 
Are they a great abundance flowing out 
From ancient Ganges ? Then the passage lies 
Here by the Indian Continent ! But here 
Even in the sight of yonder shining hills 
Which guard perhaps the ocean-way of kings, 
This quest I must forego. Our stores fail fast, 
My seamen overtasked can bear no more, 
Shrunk by the sun, my ships at every strain 
Threaten to fill and sink, and for myself, 
Not only does my strength fail, but my sight, 
Darkened and painful, fails me day by day. 
We must yield once again, and turn our ships 
To our own Hayti, and the Ozema's mouth 
Where the new city stands." Northward he turned, 
And after many weary days they neared, 
As the sun sank, their island's rocky coast. 
The misty hills, the shining mountain peaks, 
Solemn and still in the still sky — as thoughts 
Of death, and man's undying life beyond. 
Shine on him in his dark and barren hours — 
There ever if he lift his eyes to see. 



CANTO XI. 

RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS— FOURTH 
VOYAGE. 

A RRIVED at San Domingo, the new city 

Built by Bartholomew on the river-side, 
Dark was the tale the Admiral heard from him — 
How rapine, turbulence, bloodshed filled the land, 
How friend and foe were treacherous alike ; 
And how Roldan the Chief Judge of the island 
Was also chief of insolence and revolt, 
And in malignant slanders of the brothers. 

Two years the darkness deepened, and the stonn 
Burst on Columbus. By his own demand 
A royal envoy had been sent from Spain 
To judge between his accusers and himself, 
Search out the truth and send his witness home. 
For this high office Ferdinand has chosen 
Francis de Bobadilla — an hidalgo. 
And soldier in the service of the Church, 
a65 



266 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

High in the royal household. But when first 
To Hayti come, he entered on his post, 
The Admiral was up the country north, 
The Adelantado on the western coast. 

Thus the new envoy, vain and credulous, 
By flatterers guided and designing men, 
Did so misread the very facts he saw. 
The solemn trust he held, that he condemned 
The Viceroy in his absence without trial. 
Proclaimed himself as Viceroy in his place, 
In all things superseded him, seized his house. 
Public and private papers, jewels, plate. 
Boldly he was opposed by Don Diego, 
Who held at San Domingo full command 
During his brother's absence, Miguel Diaz 
The Alcalde there, also Rodrigo Perez, 
The Admiral's lieutenant, and some few 
Who still maintained their loyalty unstained, 
But he had royal mandates signed and sealed, 
Sent with him secretly by Ferdinand, 
And of the colonists the greater part 
Sided with his large company from Spain, 
And so upheld him that he did not fear 
To summon both the brothers, even Columbus, 
Haughtily to his presence, as deprived 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. 267 

Already of the rights of men accused, 
Though not as yet convicted. Don Dieejo 
He had displaced already, and imprisoned. 

The Admiral was in the Royal Vega 
At Fort Conception, in the very midst 
Of all the gracious beauty of the vale, 
Where after long disturbances he sought 
To bring out peace and law from war's misrule — 
When, like the shivering wind before a storm. 
Strange rumours reached him of the envoy's com- 
ing 
And of his violent acts. Though well convinced 
That by no royal sanction these were done, 
But troubled to the heart, he left the Fort, 
Came over the high mountains on the south 
And waited at Bonao in the plain 
Of Hayna and the gold mines. Here few weeks 
Had passed, when suddenly, unannounced 
Even to the Admiral, in the town appeared 
A royal herald, making proclamation 
That Bobadilla was appointed viceroy. 
Bewildered, anxious, still Columbus wrote 
A gracious welcome to him, and announced 
His own departure in few weeks for Spain ; 
And that before his leaving, he would give 



268 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Such full account as courtesy might claim 
Of his transactions, making all things clear 
To the new-comer. He awaited still 
His customary letters from the crowns, 
Of friendship, or the business of the State, 
And some direct announcement of their mind — 
When he received the envoy's insolent message, 
By royal signature authorised as it seemed, 
Summoning him to appear without delay. 
Astonishment and deep perplexity 
Possessed his mind, but as his constant wont 
He nor delayed nor questioned the queen's will. 
On horseback he set forth, but lightly armed, 
With a few followers lightly armed likewise, 
Forded the Hayna, and through wooded plains 
And fertile lands rode on for many a mile 
Before he gained the Ozema's wider stream, 
And pressing hard, through the rich country came 
In sight of San Domingo. Then he paused, 
And bade his people, that he might not seem 
Defiant or resisting, to keep back 
And follow at some distance whilst he rode 
Alone into the town. Upon his way 
He met no welcome, no accustomed honour ; 
Glanced coldly at as if in fear or scorn 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. 269 

And followed by a quickly gathering crowd 
Mocking and cursing him, he passed along 
Into the central place. Here he was met 
By Bobadilla's people, bade dismount, 
And brought on foot into the envoy's house, 
Which was his own house and state residence. 
And in a lower chamber placed in guard. 
He waited long expectant, but none came 
To bring him to his judge, and whilst fresh doubt 
And anxious wonder grew, there entered in 
Some officers of the guard, one carrying chains, 
Who in a hurried and unsteady voice 
Announced to him the envoy's strict commands 
That he should wear those fetters. Then the Ad- 
miral 
Rose silently and waited ; not a line 
Of his strong features trembled, his bronzed face 
Grew very pale and set, and to his eyes 
Came the last look of one who hears his doom. 
So he stood sternly ready, but delay 
Arose unlooked-for ; in the officer's hands 
The shackles hung, and none would put them on. 
The sacredness of his office, his great name, 
The memory of his many merciful deeds, 
The silent dignity in which he stood. 



270 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 



Held back even common men ; a cold proud smile 
Just stirred his lip, to see all stand aside 
With downcast eyes of shame, perhaps of fear. 
Questions were whispering asked, instructions 

given. 
Some went and came, and then at last stepped forth 
One of his lowest servants, and for hire 
The mean hands did the executioner's work. 
And he stood shackled both on wrists and feet. 
Then De Villejo entering with a guard 
To take him forth, to him Columbus said ; 
" I see now there is nothing left but death, 
Villejo, do you take me to my death ? 
Answer me truly on your Christian faith." 
And De Villejo answered : " On my soul. 
Not to your death, sir, but on board the ship 
That carries you to Spain ; and from my heart 
I pray you to forgive me of your grace 
That sworn obedience forces me to this." 
And so they went on board. Meantime Bartholo- 
mew, 
Advised so by his brother, came like him 
Alone to San Domingo, and like .fate 
Met him on his arrival — neither saw 
Nor ever met their churlish, flippant judge, 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. 27 

But with Diego were placed separately 

And each in chains, on board the caravels 

That were to take them instantly to Spain, 

Not to be judged, but to receive at once 

A punishment pre-ordained ; and thus they sailed. 

The officer who had in special charge 
The Admiral himself, was De Villejo, 
A nobleman of a most noble mind, 
Who was sore shamed to see Columbus thus, 
And to his captive ever bore himself 
With all the courtesy and observance due 
To his vice-regal office ; with such reverence 
As a pure lofty spirit and faithful life 
Inspire in noble natures ; oft he prayed 
That those unworthy chains Columbus wore 
Be stricken off, but he replied : " Not here, 
They have been locked upon me in the name 
Of the two sovereigns, in their name alone 
Shall they be stricken off. I cannot tell, 
Villejo, but I feel it in my heart 
This is not really done by the queen's wish, 
But since it bears the seeming of her will 
It shall remain so till she speak herself." 
Andreas Martin, captain of the ship, 
Revered him with like fervour and bestowed 



272 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

All the kind cares he could, and all the ease 
Imprisonment allowed. 

The voyage was made 
Quickly and in fair weather straight to Cadiz, 
And it fell out about that very time 
That seamen coming into Palos, heard 
Some rumour that three vessels from the west 
Were bringing back, the Admiral in chains. 
This news they told to Perez, the good prior, 
Who straightway went to Cadiz, and thence wrote 
A letter to De Deza. First he spoke 
Of the black slanders and the fatal choice 
Made by King Ferdinand of a deputy, 
Then further said : " The mournful tale is true 
I wrote to you from Palos a week back. 
The Admiral is here chained like a felon, 
And I have seen him. Some long years ago 
Alonzo de Villejo was my friend. 
And he and Andreas Martin gave me leave 
As a priest coming to confess and shrive, 
At once to see Columbus, for that day 
Would the Alcalde take him to his house 
Where he must wait instructions from the court. 

' ' I went on board in melancholy haste, 
And entering the cabin in the poop 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. 273 

Found him there sitting listless, with his head 

Leaning against the wall, his eyes cast down. 

His shackled hands hanging between his knees ; 

And after we had silently embraced 

He sat again so, and I, watching him, 

Thought of a row of aloes by the sea, 

Browned, beaten by the winter, their tall stems 

That once bore stately coronals of flowers 

Broken, discrowned. His brothers had come in 

For the first time since leaving San Domingo, 

And that had shaken him, shaken him nigh to tears. 

But when he heard that the Alcalde came. 

The brave old man was strengthened into stone 

And sat up cold and grim. Time after time 

Had De Villejo prayed him earnestly, 

And now almost upon his knees besought 

That he would let his chains be taken off, 

Columbus said, * These fetters shame not me. 

The king and queen shall see them.' And he rose 

And said he waited the Alcalde's pleasure 

To go on shore. 

Great was the shout that broke 

From all the crowd, of anger and remorse 

To see Don Christopher Columbus, Admiral, 

Spain's once great hero, Isabella's friend, 
18 



274 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS- 

A grey old man, come out upon the deck 
Fettered and guarded ; and alike on shore 
Anger and welcome, tears and shouting mixed ; 
The guarding was but semblance, at his side 
Villejo went bareheaded, the Alcalde 
Walked with a sorrowful and gentle mien. 
Giving his prisoner honour, every cap 
Was lowered to earth in silence as he passed. 
And now all three at Cadiz under guard, 
Such Bobadilla's orders, wait to hear 
The pleasure of the sovereigns. 
God grant that it be justice at the least 
And such free trust as is but justice here ! 
And grace and honours worthy of a prince." 

The court was at Granada, and the news 
Flashed through the country of the shameful wrong 
Done to the Admiral. The king and queen — 
The king in politic conduct and the queen 
In bitter indignation and distress — 
Wrote instantly to order his release. 
His honourable treatment and his brothers' ; 
Sent ample sums of money for his needs 
And all things to his station suitable ; 
Beseeching him to come to court at once 
With the best speed his weakened state allowed. 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. ^75 

And then indeed his chains were stricken off — 
But evermore until his dying day 
Where'er he dwelt they hung upon the wall, 
Full in his sight, their shadow on his soul — 
And he arrayed himself in goodly garb 
And set forth with his brothers for the court. 
Come to Granada, in the Alhambra palace, 
Beneath the fretted arches and the roofs 
Gilded and painted, in a marble court 
Where midst the laden orange-trees there sprang 
And flashed the murmuring waters, once again 
Before the royal pair Columbus stood. 
Whom when the queen beheld haggard and old 
Beyond the wont of threescore years and five, 
His white hairs scanty, and his once quick step 
Slow and considered, sudden to her eyes 
Rushed the kind tears, and holding out her hands 
She spoke some words of welcome, calling him 
Her good and faithful servant. At this sight 
His brave heart failed, and kneeling at her feet 
He bowed his head and wept : 
" O queen, the great God bless you for your tears ! 
And that you do me justice in your heart." 
Then rising up, with outstretched hands spoke on : 
" Do I not need your tears ? W^hat else is left 



376 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

For me who come before you stripped of all 

That was a pride or honour, like a palm 

Stripped by the tempest of its leafy crown ? 

I am a broken sword cast by in scorn ; 

A guardian fortress sapped and overthrown ; 

A nation's banner dragged through dust and mire ! 

Scoffed at by Christendom for a baffled fool ; 

Cursed as oppressor of my cherished land 

Now orphaned of me, and the tyrant's prey ! 

With such a signal baseness as the intent 

To sell your New World to some other Lord, 

I stand accused, who not so much as paused 

In the most inner secret of my soul 

To see it possible and scorn the thought ; 

And in the sight of all my enemies 

Seem even by you condemned. Yes ! in these 

weeks 
A fiery flood has rolled across my life, 
Leaving it grey with ashes, and alone 
Can tinist from one like you, trust from your heart, 
Bring to me any healing." His voice shook, 
And she with womanly and queenly words 
Bade him take comfort and rest confident 
He should be justified before the world. 
And should receive his rights and honours back, 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. 27 

And with redoubled honour. So she thought, 

But as the months went by delays were made. 

The unjust Bobadilla was recalled, 

And Nicholas de Ovando took his place, 

With full authority and powers endowed 

To disentangle all the right from wrong, 

To judge, to fulfil judgment, and to rule 

A two years' space ; and then, misdoers punished. 

The regular order of the law established, 

The Admiral's enemies silenced and exiled, 

And all the evil wrought him done away, 

He should give way to him, and he return 

To take again his own and lofty place 

In peace and perfect honour. So went forth 

Ovando in great state, even as a prince, 

Largely attended, splendidly attired ; 

His numerous fleet, not less than thirty sail. 

Munificently furnished as became 

The representative of the sovereign power. 

For many months Columbus waited on 
After the sailing of Ovando's fleet. 
In idleness at Granada ; many a time 
Did he recall his former heartfelt vows 
To take from Infidels the Holy Land 
And make good Christians of all heathen folk ; 



278 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

And often in the evening with his sons, 

Relating stories of the old crusades, 

He made new plans again, and vowed new vows 

As if youth lay before him endless, bright — 

But never came a time to keep those vows. 

Meanwhile the very air seemed thronged with tales 

Of new discoveries — of how Pinzon 

The younger, coasting down Brazil, was first 

To cross the equator in those western seas. 

And found the mighty river Amazon ; 

How Nino of Moguer, Diego Lepe 

Of the same place, Bastides of Seville, 

And De Ojeda — severally explored 

New ways and shores beyond the Parian Gulf ; 

Of how Sebastian Cabot, following out 

The great thoughts of Columbus, took his way 

To find a north-west passage ; failed therein, 

And came down many hundred leagues to Florida 

By shores unguessed at. Wondrous more than all, 

Vasco de Gama's voyage, who boldly cleared 

The Cape of Storms, and won the Indian seas 

For John of Portugal — and by like boldness 

Did Pedro de Cabral for King John also 

Secure the two Brazils. News of these things 

Whilst he did nothing, struck him to the heart 



RETURN TO SPAIN IN CHAINS. 279 

And his quick spirit neither quenched nor dulled. 
Yet something softened by forced idleness 
And weakness of his frame, would fall at times 
Into the former youthful trick of verse, 
But neither youthful now nor light the strain : 

Shall I despair because the chills of age 
Threaten the fruit yet hanging on the tree, 
And with the winds of adverse fate engage 

To shake it down ere its maturity ? 
Because despite and envy bar the way 
That I was called to from my infancy? 

Shall I despair ? and by consent betray 

The cause that I have lived for ? for base fear 

Is colleague to ill-fortune, and the day 

That I accept it brings the other near 
And I assist to my own overthrow. 
I to whom sacred prophecy was clear ! 

Who chosen, neither hope, nor trust, but know ! 
Shall I have little faith ? Yet long delay 
Lowers me to common weakness, and this show 



28o CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Of final failure ; gladly would I lay 

My head to rest, my weary bones to claim 

The kind and quiet process of decay. 

Yet who would then go forward in the name 

Of Spain and the Lord Christ ? Lord, here I 

stand 
Ready for every service. What if fame 

That was my due forsake me ? That the land 
I found and cherished is rent from me ? Thou 
Some other charge or duty wilt command, 

Wilt use me where thou needest me, and how ; 
Till to dropped eyelids and relaxing hand. 
Time for the night's long rest thou wilt allow. 

As time went by, his passionate longing grew 
To sail forth as of old, and evermore 
The vision haunted him of an opening way 
Amidst those western mountains — a broad way 
Of deep and level waters — on each hand 
High terraced cliffs straight running on for leagues, 
Solemn and mighty, silent as the sky ; 
Along whose waters galleons richly stored, 



FOURTH VOYAGE. 



Or royal fleets in proud procession formed, 
Swept by in easy grandeur on their way. 
Nearer the western sea the solemn cliffs 
Widened away, and softly lowered down 
To sunny slopes and stately sweeping swards. 
And lakes where gilded barges proudly moved, 
Where palaces rose large amidst the trees, 
Gold-roofed and marble-fronted, and arcades 
Of clustering columns, floors mosaic paved. 
Led to some bowery city's domes and squares ; 
Where everywhere thronged bright inhabitants, 
Whose feasts and music, cheerful festivals. 
Priests and processions, filled the shining days — 
And brought to the true Christ would make his Cross 
The centre of their stately life, each town 
A new Jerusalem, a Heavenly Bride. 
The mighty ocean widening from those straits 
Would be, he thought, an ever sunny calm, 
The wild Atlantic's ceaseless storms unknown. 
So longing and so dreaming, the time came 
When with Bartholomew and his youngest son 
On this great quest the sovereigns sent him forth. 
Bidding him God-speed in all friendliness ; 
And kind the farewell Isabella wrote 
In those last words he ever had from her. 



282 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

One hundred men and fifty in his ships, — 
His ships four caravels — Columbus sailed 
To seek a new route to the Eastern lands. 
But being driven far northward from his course, 
Foreseeing heavy M^eather, his own ship 
Slowly-sailing, leaky, scarce indeed sea-worthy, 
He steered for San Domingo, there to wait 
In safety, and procure a better ship 
In place of the old caravel. Drawing nigh 
The mouth of the Ozema, he beheld 
Lying upon the stream a numerous fleet 
Ready to sail for Spain. It carried back 
His own worst enemies, a lawless crowd 
Of profligate idlers dangerous to the State ; 
Their leader Bobadilla, superseded 
Now by Ovando ; Guarionex of the Vega, 
The last chief left of all the native chiefs ; 
A heavy freight of treasure and of gold 
Extorted for the sovereigns, or amassed 
By Bobadilla for his private use ; 
Also the Admiral's treasure, stored for him 
By his own officer De Carvajal. 

Columbus anchoring in the river's mouth 
Made haste to send on shore as messenger, 



FO UR TH VO YA GE. 283 

One of his captains, to demand in form, 

Besides a good ship to replace his own, 

Leave from the governor publicly announced 

To come at once for shelter into port. 

For he perceived the signs of coming change 

And very terrible tempests. But Ovando — 

Perchance foreseeing mischief, for the town 

Yet held a number of the Admiral's foes 

Who had been subjected on his account 

To severe penalties — refused him leave 

To come into the port, or to remain 

At anchor in the river, or to change 

His poor ship for a good one, and despatched 

His answer by an officer of his guard. 

Columbus read the letter, a dark flush 

Rose to his brow, and with set lips he paused 

A little ere he spoke : " Most worthy sir, 

I pray you, tell my lord the governor 

That I accept his message, and will take 

My ships to imminent death. Then further say, 

Though calm the sea and cloudless are the skies, 

That I have a long knowledge of these coasts 

And all their weather signs, and all foretell 

That ere two days be past such hurricanes 



284 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

As my lord governor has never seen, 

As have not visited this coast for years, 

Will come upon us, and I pray my lord, 

I earnestly beseech him for Christ's sake. 

That he will stay the sailing of the fleet, 

And not endanger all the many lives 

On board those ships, nor the good ships themselves, 

But wait in safety till the storms be past." 

Calm were the seas and calm the radiant skies. 
And none would take heed to his warning words, 
And whilst his crew muttered, " 111 luck is ours, 
With this man for a leader ! Not received 
Here where he once was viceroy, turned away 
In face of threatening gales, refused a ship 
Perchance to save his life ! " he with firm voice 
Bid hoist the sails and heave the anchors up, 
And with calm countenance watched his prows 

turn round 
In sight of all that fleet, and of the town 
Bartholomew had raised, and took his course 
Westward, to seek such safety as they might 
By sheltering cliff or inward sloping bay. 

Next day the thirty ships went out of port. 
Slow going in the dead and breathless air 
A day, a night, and half a second day ; 



FO UR TH VO YA GE. 185 

Then whilst Ovando triumphed in the calm, 
The moaning sea was rising black and grim, 
Heavy and hot the slow-collecting clouds 
Spread round the horizon, on the distant waves 
The white spray leaped, all round the thunder 

rolled, 
And long before they reached the eastward cliffs 
The hurricane broke upon them : wind and rain, 
Lightning and thunder, and a mountainous sea 
Continual changing with the veering storm 
And the contending currents. On the shore 
There was like fortune. Furious in the east 
And furious in the west great gales arose 
And rolled the towering masses of torn cloud 
In darkness on the town ; the houses shook 
As with an earthquake, and the frightened crowd 
Looked for some unknown terror yet to come. 
In the wide country round, these tropical gales 
Were not less fearful, tearing mightiest trees 
Up by the roots, bending the lofty palms 
Like rushes to the ground, whirling in air 
The huts and sugar-canes, and bringing down 
Whole cliffs with woods upon them to the plain. 
The waters were swept inland for many miles, 
Tossing the anchored vessels to and fro, 



a86 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Far from their moorings, till they went asunder 
And the drowned sailors floated in the midst ; 
Many the dead that lay upon the land. 

For many days the winds and waters raged, 
And when at last the sunny calms returned. 
The half-wrecked town with awe-struck terror saw 
Some three or four dismantled hulks drift in 
To tell their dreadful tale. That ship that took 
The Admiral's gold was saved, and had pursued 
Her destined way to Spain ; the rest were lost, 
Were sunk in the unfathomable depths, 
And broken spars and useless wreck alone 
Floated, and strewed the heaving sea for miles. 

Meanwhile Columbus and his caravels. 
Driven from the port, pursued their dangerous way 
Along the coast to westward ; by the skill 
Of their good captains weathered out the storm, 
And found in Port Hermoso some repose ; 
Repaired their sea-beat ships, and when the winds 
Came freshening from the north spread all their 

sails 
And stretched out boldly on the unknown seas. 
Two hundred leagues they sailed, and saw new 

land 
Before the summer closed, the Isle of Pines, 



FOURTH VOYAGE. 287 

The long and fertile coast Honduras called, 

A coast of frequent storms. Then went their way 

Past reedy rivers, capes, and land-locked bays. 

Savannas, solemn mountains, spreading woods 

Whose vaulted trees to lofty dimness rose, 

Or made a paradise of scent and bloom, 

As softly wild as wonderful as dreams ; 

Inhabited by many a goodly folk — 

Ever more south for countless, countless leagues. 

Along this coast it was the wanderers met 

A canopied canoe from Yucatan, 

Whose hundred passengers had long tales to tell 

Of rich and civilised countries in the west ; 

Here too they heard of spices, pearls, and gold, 

And of Veragua, whose wild rocks and hills. 

And palmy plains rich in all corn and fruits. 

Also in these abounded. Now arose 

From the ships' companies a passionate prayer 

Here to make pause, to rest from ocean strife 

And tasks severe, and while the moment served 

Seize on these natural treasures. But their chief 

Had no part in these longings, and turned east, 

Leading his ships reluctant by the ridge 

Of mountainous rock that feels on either side 

The tides of both the world's great oceans beat ; 



288 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Where, had he paused and climbed its woody heights 
God had revealed the mystery that he sought, 
And to his unsealed eyes had been laid bare 
The secret of the Continents and the West : 

Slow pressing forward, they were sore beset 
By the small enemy so terrible, 
That bores its secret tunnels in the planks 
And eats the heart of stoutest pine or oak. 
Here trophical fogs in huge, soft columns piled, 
Advancing like swift ghosts, obscured their way ; 
By more tremendous storms than ever yet 
Captains or crews had known they were assailed : 
Shrieking and crashing, till the mariners 
Shook as at terrors of the Judgment Day, 
And wept and prayed and mourned their many sins. 
Confessing each to each. Upon his bed. 
Sick and sore racked with pain, the Admiral lay. 
Sheltered upon the stern, where he might still 
Control the navigation and keep rule. 
The vessels strained and laboured, mountainous 

waves 
Frequent broke over them ; and not alone 
Did the dense fogs in giant masses piled, 
The thunderstorms, the windy hurricanes, 
Make the sky awful, but like evil spirits 



FOURTH VOYAGE. 289 

Came the down-hanging waterspouts that drew 
The ocean up to them in twisted heaps, 
Whirling about ungoverned till they burst 
In dangerous turbulence, all created things 
Seeming their natural order to forsake. 
And they were haunted by white-bellied sharks 
Hungry and grim ; great sea-birds swept around, 
Loud screaming for their prey. And so the days 
Ran on to weeks in danger and distress. 

Fair weather came at last, and the fleet lay 
At anchor in the shade of westward cliffs 
Where palms stood black against a fiery sky, 
Deepening to violet as the sun went down ; 
And the large stars shone out in heaven above 
And in the deep, dark waters of the creek. 
Here on his vessel's poop the Admiral sat 
Weary beside his brother, who had been 
In all that voyage as ever a sure friend. 
In grief and danger, both by sea and land. 
In sickness and in sorrow gentle, kind, 
Truly in all things as his stronger self. 
Against his uncle's shoulder leaned Fernando, 
A slender lad, of laughing, loving eyes, 
And curls of clustering brown that rested now 
Upon a thin, wan cheek. Columbus then : 



290 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

** Bartholomew, behold, the fortieth day 
Now closes on us since we left behind 
Veragua's promised wealth ; my eager search 
Is baffled still, and I am very sad 
And troubled for thee, brother, who hast come 
Against thy will upon this dangerous voyage 
On my behalf ; for thee and for Fernando, 
My good heroic boy, so causeless brought 
Into such dreary straits, and his young life 
Imperilled for my sake ; and for my son 
Who waits for us in Spain — the troubled days 
Which lie before him if my end should come, 
Leaving my great and difficult affairs 
Unsettled in his hands. 

My men's complaints, 
Our captains' urgency, thy frequent prayers 
That I would spare them, nor in our frail ships 
Wage further war against the elements, 
I own are just ; but here where we might rest 
In safety, and repair our leaky ships 
For further search along this endless coast, 
Our men's wild, lawless conduct has made foes 
Of the kind Indian people, and these shores 
Are safe for us no more. Brother, God's han4 
Is visibly against me for this time. 



FOURTH VOYAGE. 291 

All that remains for us is to turn back 
And seek to carry out my lesser plan, 
To found another colony ; and no place 
Will suit so well as rich Veragua's coast." 

" For this time, brother, but when thou hast built 
Thy town, and all is ordered, thou and I 
Will sail again successful on this quest." 

" We shall, Bartholomew, and when I found 
Another settlement I will keep it well. 
Clean from the sins and sorrows of the old. 
In the first freshness of its joy and love 
Offered as a sin-offering for the blood 
And tears of Hispaniola. For my search 
No doubts disturb me, I shall yet return 
And find the western passage, and at last 
The time will come to lead my great Crusade 
And thus fulfil my life. But now I think 
Of our return voyage west." 

"Aye, Christopher, 
And seek thy rest now, leave the ships to me. 
We will be ready to go west at dawn." 
The Admiral in his cabin laid him down. 
And cheerfully Bartholomew gave command 
That on the morrow they should quit the creek 
And shape their course to westward and south-west. 



292 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Veragua's land of promise, her rich plains, 
Her gold-abounding rocks, the Spaniards reached 
Just as the New Year opened, and essayed 
To raise their settlement. But all things failed 
Upon that fatal coast, except the faith 
Of those few ready, lion-hearted men, 
Who stood fast by Columbus to the death. 
Late in the spring the shattered company 
Left that sad coast, to make the speediest way 
Yet possible for shelter and new ships 
To San Domingo, even yet to lose 
Another caravel, so pierced by worms 
That all her timbers failed, and she went down ; 
And in their two small vessels they pursued 
Their lonely way, struggling against head winds 
And currents contrary, and failing hope. 

In San Domingo some two years had passed 
Since the great storm — and from his palace gates 
The governor was riding forth in state, 
When he was stayed to listen to the tale 
Of two worn seafarers just come to shore. 
Diego Mendez and Fiesco these, 
Two of the bravest of the Admiral's friends, 
Two of the best of his ships' companies, 
Who scarce with trembling limbs could go or stand. 



FOUR TH VO YA GE. 293 

And scarce with hoarse and hollow voice could 

speak. 
They told that from Jamaica they had come, 
And there had left the Admiral aground 
Upon the rocks by Port San Gloria, 
In the two worm-pierced ships the sea had spared. 
These they had lashed together side by side, 
Just foundering, full of water to the decks, 
Run them aground, and built on prow and poop 
Thatched huts, the only shelter possible 
In their forlorn sad plight ; the islanders 
Being turned against them by the greediness 
And tyranny of the baser of the crews. 
Numbers of whom forsook the Admiral 
And wandered wild and lawless on the land. 
Of these the basest were the brothers Porras, 
Unscrupulous leaders of conspiracy. 
Who openly attacked him when he lay 
Crippled and helpless on his bed, his life 
Twice by Bartholomew rescued from their hands ; 
And for his sake had these adventurers 
In two canoes by a few Indians manned, 
Come fifty leagues in famine, heat, and thirst. 
In risks from storms, the treachery of their men, 
And the i^nflicting currents of the sea. 



294 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

To ask for speedy aid. 

O van do heard, 
But doubting of their tale, sent secretly 
Spies to discover what the truth might be, 
Who soon returned and made the sad truth known. 
Yet still a year's delay the governor made 
Before he sent them help ; before Columbus 
And the poor perishing remnant of his crews 
Were fed and clothed, and brought to San Domingo. 
Five weeks they were at sea, and when they stood 
Before Ovando, gaunt and hollow-eyed, 
Scarcely like living creatures, there was first 
A silence of great horror, then a cry 
From all who saw, of pity and remorse. 
For their heroic leader, ever just 
And ever kind, the old love was rekindled, 
And the old reverence, and loud acclaim 
Of hearty welcome rang, and tears were shed. 
But the two brothers Porras, brought in chains 
As prisoners, taken red-handed in revolt 
And ready for all murderous extremes. 
Were by Ovando's own command released. 
And suffered to return, free, unaccused. 
To plead their cause in Spain : while to the Admiral 
All right to sue or judge them was denied. 



FOURTH VOYAGE. 295 

Before departing on his homeward voyage 
Columbus travelled on the northern coasts, 
And riding up the Pass of the Hidalgos 
Paused when he reached its heights, to look once 

more 
Across the Royal Vega. Long he gazed 
Up the silent, desolated land, 
Nor knew it the last time ; his inmost heart 
Ached as it had not ached for his own wrongs 
Bitter and deep, his seeming wasted life : 
But for his island and its terrible doom 
Each year more terrible. There was not a crime 
Which that strange thirst for gold which makes 

men mad 
Madder the more they quench it, and the fire 
Of loose unbridled power, arouse in men, 
But on the innocent people had brought down 
The fate of evil beasts. Not yet ten years 
Since first Columbus touched their kindly shores. 
And scarcely a seventh part of the Indians lived : 
The strong had struggled bravely and were slain, 
The weak were overborne, and grieved and died ; 
The Royal Vega, that wide Paradise, 
Had run with innocent blood, and by her streams 
Her mild and slender children had dropped dead 



296 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Beneath their heavy and unwonted toils, 
Like animals struck down by pestilence, 
Like blossoms falling in a strong east wind ; 
Many had slain themselves and all their house, 
Rather than live beneath the white man's rule. 
And with this burden aching at his heart 
Columbus with his brother and his son, 
Took ship once more for Spain. 



CANTO XII. 

RETURN TO SPAIN, AND DEATH. 

TT was a sad, disastrous voyage that brought 

The adventurers back to Europe, and Columbus 
Came into Santo Lucar stricken down 
With pain and fever. By his brother's care 
Being carried in a litter from the ship, 
He raised his head, and looking back at her 
Said to his son Fernando with a smile : 
" We are much alike, the good old barque and I, 
Neither sea-worthy, but I think that I 
Have the most life left, and when once at Seville 
I shall rest well and get my strength again." 
But those who watched him saw the tide had turned 
To ebb away, and not to flow again. 
When he arrived at Seville, burning pains 
Kept him a helpless prisoner ; his afl"airs, 
Through great neglect and wilful treachery, 
Were much disordered, and though ample wealth 
297 



298 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Lay due to him in Hayti and in Spain, 

So little reached him that by borrowed aid 

His household was maintained. His eldest son 

Was at Medina Campo with the queen 

Who lay there sick to death. Not knowing this, 

Columbus trusted still that her firm hand 

And faithful soul would gain and guard his rights 

Against his many enemies and the king ; 

He urged in frequent letters his own claims, 

Pictured the sorrowful, distracted state 

Of Hispaniola, where the golden ores 

Owned by the crown lay useless and unwatched ; 

As instantly he urged his seamen's rights, 

Praying quick payment of the wages due 

For their hard services — though he knew well 

How most of them had been his active foes. 

And some were ready still to work him harm. 

" They are poor," he said ; "for three years they 

have toiled 
In storms and dangers far away from home. 
And they bring back good news that well deserves 
Justice and thanks at least, if not reward 
Beyond mere bargained payment." In reply 
To all his urgency no comfort came 
And no assurance that his words were read. 



k&TURN TO SPAW. 2^9 

The vessel bringing Porras and his brother 
Had landed them by Sagres, and on this 
Columbus was resolved to seek the court 
That he might speak himself in his defence, 
For all his papers had been lost at sea. 
The winter cold was great, but at the door 
His litter was prepared, and he arose 
Fain to go down the long, uneasy stair 
And go out into the bitter, piercing wind ; 
But his strength failed, his sufferings were too sore, 
He lay back trembling in his fevered limbs, 
And said : "I see now I am old indeed. 
And little time is left me to secure 
My rank and privileges ; even now 
I fear I may not cross the seas again, 
Nor — if the sovereigns grant my office back 
And make me once more Viceroy in the West — 
Have the strength left to rule there ; but my son, 
But my dear son, would take my lofty place 
And all my other rights, and at thy side. 
My good Bartholomew, would all go well 
For him and the new kingdoms, therefore still 
I must work hard to win back all my rights." 
Fernando then : " O father, take good heart ! 
My uncle will to court and say for you 



300 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLVMBjJS. 

All that you would have said, and he can speak 
Those things about yourself you cannot say." 
" Not yet," replied the Admiral, " I will write 
A letter to the queen. Patience till then — " 
And knew not that she was already dead. 
Those mournful tidings reached him as he sat 
In some returning brightness of the sun, 
One day at noon, when came Fernando in, 
Bringing a letter from the Lady Joan 
Wherein she told him that the suffering queen 
Had closed her eyes in death. " Alas ! " he said. 
Trembling all over, and his lips all white, 
" So great a loss the world has never known ! 
Prayers must we make for her, for her soul's rest. 
Yet can we doubt not of her blessed estate. 
So good, so holy ever ; God has sure 
At once received her to her place in Heaven. 
Prayers also for the king, to him this blow 
Is great and heavy ; grand their lot has been 
And never sovereign had a nobler spouse. 
And never husband a more tender wife, 
And never man or woman had a friend 
More than she was to me." Thus having spoke. 
He sat with his bowed head between his hands 
And mourned her loss through many heavy hours. 



KETURM Td SPAm. 3ot 

She had to him so represented heaven, 

Had been such absohite goodness in herself, 

So fed his soul's needs like a sacrament. 

That at the first his staggering thoughts seemed 

lost 
And loosened his fast hold on heavenly things ; 
She had been also such a faithful friend, 
So just, so kind, so thoughtful of his weel — 
His darkened life grew darker, even the walls 
Became more bare and dark, as in a room 
Whose tapestries are rudely torn away ; 
But with the memory of her many griefs 
An old man's tardy tears came to his eyes, 
And in a broken voice he uttered thanks 
" That she was taken to her perfect rest 
Out of the troubles of this weary world." 

Good friends about the court Columbus had — 
Of whom Vespucci was among the best, 
Faithful and brave ; De Deza was another, 
Archbishop now of Seville, a firm friend 
From Salamanca in old times till now ; 
De Carvajal who long had loved him well 
And laboured for him ; with Diego Mendez 
One of the most unwearied, tried and true ; 
Also Geronimo, who knew as they 



302 CHRONICLES OP CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

The truth about Columbus. To these came 
Bartholomew, and they together worked 
For justice to his brother. With the spring 
Came healing warmth, and through the old man's 

frame 
Life ran a fresher course, and he arose 
And travelled to Segovia to the court. 
Here amidst warmest welcome from his friends, 
And much of outward honours and regard 
From the great personages round the king. 
What soothed him most, what he the most esteemed, 
Was the respect and love even of Ximenes 
The austere lofty prelate, stern and bold, 
Noble and pure of life, and who was now 
Grand Cardinal of Spain. 

The cautious king 
Gave to his urgent and repeated prayers 
At last a private hearing, when he told 
The story of his voyage and the gold mines 
In the new land Veragua ; Ferdinand 
Heard him with inward joy, and lacked in naught 
Of outward courtesy, but on his brow 
Truth was not, nor a kind gleam in his eyes, 
And with a cold displeasure he enquired 
Why had the Admiral not remained to work 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 303 

Those teeming mines and bring their treasures 

home. 
Columbus in his heart longed for the queen, 
Her reassuring presence, her kind voice, 
But silenced his sad memories and spoke, 
Explaining all those matters once again, 
And then his tremulous voice went harsh and 

strange. 
The old fire kindled in his eyes, his hand 
Clenched and unclenched, and a faint red rose up 
Into his faded cheek : " I wrote, O king, 
And told you of the sufferings of the land 
We took to be our own ; I told you, sire. 
Of those great crimes of brutal-minded force 
Which have laid desolate the lovely isle 
Of Hispaniola, and have made a Hell 
Where was a Paradise ; drenching in blood 
The peaceful vales, the sunny flowery plains ; 
Leaving the echoes only of their names 
Who dwelt there innocent, sincere, benign. 
When first we Christians took them to our care ; 
Have taught them murder, treachery, and hate. 
Have made the white men's race a mock and curse, 
A name for all things cruel or unclean. 
King, these great sins were needless ! never wealth 



304 CHkONtCLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLVmBVS, 

Out-poured as rivers of the virgin gold 

Can compensate our deep blood-guiltiness, 

Or give us back those wasted lives and love. 

Let it be so no more, but these new fields 

Of wealth and enterprise be clean of blood, 

And we proud Christians carry in our lives 

The evidence of Him whose name we bear." 

He paused, and Ferdinand slightly bowed his head, 

And gently smiled and said, " We hear you, sir, 

We thank you for your zeal and services, 

And we will bear your warning words in mind 

When to Veragua we address ourselves ; 

Meanwhile we will consider your demands 

Regarding your possessions, and fulfil 

All v/ith the strictest justice." This was all 

The answer that he gave. 

About that time 
The court removed again, Valladolid 
Being its usual seat, and settled there 
The Admiral in writing urged his suit ; 
With due formalities received again 
Promise and courtesy from King Ferdinand ; 
But many months of talk and argument 
Wilfully lengthened, burned his life away. 
And when the Queen Joanna and her spouse 



RETURN TO SPAIN. 305 

From Flanders came to take her mother's throne, 

And all the court went northward to the coast 

To give them stately welcome, he remained 

Powerless to rise or travel ; but Bartholomew 

Went for him to do homage to the queen 

And speak to her his brother's confident hope 

Of perfect restitution at her hands 

Of all his rights and offices again ; 

And how, relieved of care, he should arise 

As his old self, and carry out for her 

All his great schemes as he had thought to do 

For her good mother when he last returned 

To Spain to find her dying. Thus he said, 

But shortly on his brother's leaving him 

He lay down on his bed to rise no more, 

And thus wrote to him, " Brother, much I doubt 

If ever I shall see thy face again, 

But work thou all the more to win my rights 

For my two sons ; my work and rights are done, 

Darkly and overcast my sky brings in 

The evening of my days ; I have toiled hard, 

I have done great things, but no one gives me thanks 

Or pays my promised wages ; I have sown, 

Others will reap the harvest ; I have led 

A forlorn hope, and others enter in 
20 



3o6 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Over my fallen body ; be it so. 

Faithful I bore the standard of the Lord 

At his command, and having set it up 

I wait his further pleasure ; if I die 

My great works unaccomplished, and myself 

Unjustified before the world, I go 

To take my wages and my stars of honour 

In his own kingdom, at his very feet ; 

Yet strive thou for my sons, my rights are theirs." 

His malady grew yet more virulent, 
And like a field of ripened corn that lies 
Dashed and down-beaten by tempestuous rain, 
By his great agonies overpowered he lay ; 
His brothers being busy at the court 
His sons attended on him, and their love 
Faithful and quick taught them such sick-bed cares 
As gentle women use ; servants and friends 
A few there were to wait upon his couch, 
To speak good cheer, and watch with hearts intent 
For every gentle faltering word he spoke, 
"Whenever his great sufferings gave him leave — 
Chief amongst these Fiesco, who had made 
That dangerous voyage with Mendez to implore 
Help from Ovando, when Columbus lay 
Shipwrecked and starving on Jamaica's rocks. 



DEA TH. 307 



Again his malady grew more virulent, 
And on Ascension Day all pain had ceased, 
Whereon the leech announced that death was 

near. 
And bade him if he aught had on his mind 
To settle it at once. There was no need 
Now of formalities, and lying pale 
Beneath the heavy curtains of his bed, 
Amid the softened light cast through the room 
From the great glow outside, for to the north 
His windows opened ; whilst the pictured saints 
Hanging upon the wall, his sword and cloak, 
The long-linked chains he carried everywhere. 
Faded from his dim sight — with tremulous lips 
And frequent pause he told his chief desires 
Over again, and once again besought 
Diego, his dear son, ever to hold 
Fernando, the young brother, near his heart : 
** Watch him, Diego, kindly, he is all 
The brothers that thou hast, and, my good son, 
For thee ten brothers were not half enough. 
Naught is enough for thee ; but brothers' love 
Is the great good of all, then love each other 
As I and your two uncles ever loved, 
And served each other's needs with ready hand." 



3o8 CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

Then to Diego he went on to speak 

His last instructions — masses to be said 

For his own soul, his wife's, his parents' both, 

In a new chapel that his son should build 

Hereafter at Conception in the Vega, 

In that dear land so wonderfully given 

Into his hand by God ; and special charge 

For the support and care of Beatrix, 

Fernando's mother : ' * Do this faithfully, 

For heavy is my soul on her account. 

My conscience sorely wounded." And he named 

Many small sums and duties that he owed 

To any who had served him. Then he ceased, 

And signified that now he would receive 

The rites and comforts by the Church ordained 

To help men to their end. Diego sent 

To bring the priest and his solemnities. 

And speedily the sacring-bell was heard 

Below the window and upon the stairs. 

And then there entered priest and white-robed choir 

"With lighted candles and the holy pyx. 

Chalice, and cross, and consecrated oil. 

Columbus made confession, and received 

At the priest's hands remission of his sins, 



DEA TH. 309 



The holy wafer, and with sacred oil 

The mystic sign on brow, and breast, and feet ; 

Then, after prayers and duly chanted psalms, 

The priest and his array went out, and the old man 

Lay still, and none were near but weeping friends 

And the two brothers standing at his head. 

" Kiss me, my sons," he said, and they obeyed 
And kissed him on the cheeks. "Kneel down," 

he said, 
" On either side the bed." And they knelt down, 
Each with his bowed face hidden in the sheets. 
And with a hand upon the head of each 
He blessed them and was silent ; none else spoke 
And all the noises on the street were heard. 
And the birds singing in the blossoming vines 
About the window, and the distant bells 
Ringing glad peals in honour of the Feast 
Of the Ascension, sounding dreamily. 
He spoke again : " Into thy hands, O Lord, 
I do commend my spirit," and then lay 
Breathing some moments more in scarce-drawn 

breaths 
That softly ceased. And so Columbus died. 
Ending his long and laborious life in peace. 



3IO CHRONICLES OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 

In later years, when to another's gaze 
That mighty ocean lay revealed — from him 
By Darien's hills and Panama's long range 
Of seaboard mountains hidden — all men knew 
That the Italian seaman had not found 
The borders of an old, known continent 
But of new countries ; and that his proud motto 
Granted him by the sovereigns long ago, 
In its majestic claim stood justified : 

A Castilla y a Leon 
Nuevo Mundo dio Colon. 

More than he sought he had attained, for God 

Gave to his patient courage, to his faith 

Lofty and reasonable, such reward 

As comes but once in history. Meanwhile he 

Had gone on that long voyage that all men take, 

And, without help or comrade, had again, 

By unknown waters entered a New World. 



THE END. 







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